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Denver City Council Takes Up Issue Of Short Term Rentals

By Jennifer Brice

DENVER (CBS4)- The Denver City Council will meet Wednesday night to talk about drafting new rules for people renting their homes on websites like Airbnb. It's become a popular way for many people to make extra money.

But in a competitive housing market, the city says they discovered some people buying apartment homes or buildings and turning them into short term rentals to maximize the amount of money they could make.

The city says that affects housing inventory and the amount of affordable housing units available for people to rent long term, which is longer than 30 days.

The city wants a level playing field for everyone.

On Wednesday evening, Denver City Council will talk about the new rules being drafted for that short term rental market.

One of those rules to be discussed: if someone wants to rent their home or room on a website like Airbnb, that home must be their primary residence.

City Councilwoman Mary Beth Susman said the rules also include paying taxes similar to what hotels pay.

"You have to pay the lodger's tax (10.75 percent) and get a business license," said Susman. "And when you advertise your home or rooms you need to put your license number in the ad."

The proposed rules has come with push back from people who own second homes and have been using them as short term rental properties. The meeting is Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at South High School in Denver.

Jennifer Brice is a reporter with CBS4 focusing on crime and courts. Follow her on Facebook or on Twitter @CBS4Jenn.

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