Little Rock, Arkansas, has a longstanding history of utilizing short-term rentals, offering essential housing flexibility to both visitors and local families. These accommodations serve as temporary homes during home renovations, between leases, and in emergencies. They are also valuable guest spaces, hosting visiting family members, professionals, and individuals in town for specific events or work assignments.

Little Rock understands the importance of short-term rentals and the City of Little Rock has recognized them as a housing option for travelers as stated in the below excerpt from the ordinance:

[Use of residential homes for short-term rentals grants owners opportunities for housing to be used for the purpose of safe temporary rental accommodations throughout the City’s collective of neighborhoods; and the City has developed an equitable system for permitting short-term rentals, incorporating mechanisms to preserve neighborhood character while allowing reasonable latitude for the use of private residences to generate income.]

Despite our adherence to all regulations, completion of necessary applications, and approval from the City of Little Rock Planning Commission, we, along with several other hosts in the area, have faced denial due to neighborhood opposition lacking any substantial evidence. It appears that any dissent within the neighborhood, regardless of factual basis or taking into consideration how well the rental is run, can lead to denial of the application. This does not align with the spirit of reasonable latitude outlined in the ordinance.

Ultimately, fair and reasonable regulation of STR's ensures compliance and enhances tax revenue for local governments. We agree with this and we are happy to abide by this. However, it's essential to maintain a supportive environment for this industry in Little Rock, avoiding unnecessary restrictions that could stifle economic growth, and harm the city of Little Rock tourism sector.  

We've poured our heart and soul into this property, viewing it not just as an investment but as a commitment to offering a peaceful and unique stay in Little Rock. The denial from the City of Little Rock has placed us, and many other hosts, in dire financial situations. We've invested our life savings into this home, meticulously refinished and furnished it to a high standard, all with the intention of operating it as a short-term rental. We are not alone in this; there are many other hosts who are in the same situation.

Please support us, and other responsible hosts, to continue to run our well-maintained asset to the community. We are committed to doing things the right way, and will continue to improve our home, remain committed to keeping the character and charm of our historic home, and provide a one of-a-kind stay for individuals and families visiting our community.