On November 21, 2024, El Dorado County in California enacted a new Vacation Home Rental (VHR) ordinance. Under this regulation, residents must obtain a permit to host guests in their homes. The ordinance also prohibits property owners from renting out any outdoor areas for events such as parties, picnics, or similar gatherings. Remarkably, the county imposes a $1,500 fine on property owners simply for listing their property for such uses—even when no actual rental has taken place. Since no transaction or event has occurred, the basis for the violation is questionable. This raises serious concerns about the county’s authority to penalize owners for hypothetical activities, especially given that the ordinance appears to infringe on fundamental property rights.