Short-Term Rental Policy Statement - Fall 2022

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There has been considerable interest in and discussion about short-term rental properties in the River Oaks area.  The city of Searcy has recently passed an ordinance (Ordinance No. 2022-22) addressing short-term rentals in Searcy, and the Board of the River Oaks Property Owners Association, Inc., intends to support and adhere to that policy statement, which can be viewed online at https://www.cityofsearcy.org/ordinances-resolutions. 

Recognizing the tension between the rights of landowners and adjacent landowners over short-term rentals, the city went through a lengthy vetting process before approving Ordinance No.2022-22, which is designed to be enforceable, equitable and affordable.  The ordinance addresses zoning issues; off-street parking requirements; occupancy limits; federal, state, and local tax liabilities; and business licensing guidelines, including the required inspections and availability of a local representative. 

POA members should access the ordinance (Ordinance No. 2022-22) online at https://www.cityofsearcy.org/ordinances-resolutions to learn about licensing, taxation, local representation, and other stipulations regarding short-term rentals.  The Board encourages POA members to report any violations of the restrictions to the city authorities, particularly those related to the number of people permitted in a given house, inappropriate noise levels, and overnight parking in the street.  The city of Searcy, in the ordinance, expressly states its commitment to “Maintaining the quality and character of existing neighborhoods.”  The Board echoes that commitment and fully intends to engage with the city officials to assure that standard is enforced. 

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