Village Approves Law Banning Airbnb, Other Short-Term Rentals

BABYLON VILLAGE, NY - Babylon Village trustees unanimously officially voted to pass a local law that would ban Airbnb and other rentals less than 30 nights. On Tuesday night, officials held the second meeting to discuss the legislation dubbed Local Law 8.

According to the proposed law, the village determined there were "serious conditions arising from the rental of dwelling units" that are in violation of the village code.

The proposed village law claims that these rental units are too small, overcrowded, dangerous, cause an overburden to municipal services and "pose a danger to life, limb and property."

The punishment for violating the proposed law includes a fine between $500 and $1,000 or 15 days in prison for first offense. The fine can increase up to $5,000 after three or more offenses.

After the first meeting last month, the village decided to host another meeting this week before coming to a decision.

Despite some opposition from residents, trustees and the mayor voted to pass the law.

"You’re out of touch with people that are coming into the community, that want to stay for a weekend, that want to enjoy what we have and to tell them ‘Oh no, I’m sorry, you’re going to be rowdy, or you’re a detriment to the community,’ " resident Susan Trumble said during the meeting, according to Newsday. "These are just regular people."