What is Arizonans for Responsible Tourism Recovery?
Arizonans for Responsible Tourism Recovery is a coalition of Arizona residents, community leaders, and business owners organized to address the impacts of the short-term rental industry on local communities. The group's primary focus is to advocate for legislative changes that would restore the ability of towns and cities to regulate vacation rentals.
They argue that a 2016 state law has led to negative consequences, including a reduction in affordable housing, increased nuisance issues, and a change in neighborhood character.
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How it works
AZ RTR functions as a political advocacy group. They engage in public awareness campaigns through their website, social media, and press outreach to highlight the challenges communities face due to a high concentration of STRs.
The coalition also performs direct lobbying of state legislators and city council members, presenting data and resident testimony to support their case for regulatory reform. Furthermore, they mobilize a network of volunteers and supporters to contact elected officials, attend hearings, and vote for candidates who support their policy goals.
Why it matters
For vacation rental owners and property managers in Arizona, AZ RTR is a significant stakeholder in the regulatory environment. The organization's advocacy can directly influence the creation of new laws governing STRs, potentially leading to stricter zoning, new licensing requirements, occupancy limits, and higher taxes.
Monitoring their activities provides insight into potential future regulations and shifts in public and political sentiment regarding the vacation rental industry within the state.
Examples
- After reading an article quoting an AZ RTR representative, a Phoenix host proactively reviews and reinforces their property's house rules regarding noise and quiet hours.
- A property owner in Scottsdale learns that a bill supported by AZ RTR, which could require a more expensive local permit, is being debated in the state legislature.
- A property manager in Sedona joins the AZ RTR mailing list to stay informed about proposed changes to local occupancy limits that could affect their larger rental properties.
- A group of homeowners in a Flagstaff neighborhood, experiencing frequent disturbances from a nearby rental property, contacts AZ RTR for resources on how to advocate for stricter local enforcement.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main legislative goal of Arizonans for Responsible Tourism Recovery?+
Is Arizonans for Responsible Tourism Recovery against all short-term rentals?+
How does AZ RTR differ from an STR trade association?+
How does Arizonans for Responsible Tourism Recovery fund its activities?+
Related terms
Arizona Vacation Rental Association
The Arizona Vacation Rental Association (AZVRA) is a professional organization dedicated to representing and supporting vacation rental owners, managers, and…
Short Term Rental Advocacy Center
The Short Term Rental Advocacy Center (STRAC) is a resource hub created by Expedia Group to support property owners, managers, and local alliances in…
Zoning Laws
Zoning laws are municipal or county regulations that dictate how property in specific geographic zones can be used, which directly impacts the legality and…
STR License
An STR license is an official permit issued by a government authority that legally allows a property owner to operate a short-term rental in a specific…
