Dallas Appeals Judge’s Block on Short-Term Rental Rules

Dallas pursues an appeal against a local judge’s order preventing the implementation of new regulations banning short-term rental properties in single-family zoned areas, amidst ongoing legal battles and concerns.

Dallas takes a legal step forward as it seeks to challenge a local judge’s ruling that halted the city’s efforts to restrict short-term rental properties in single-family zoned neighborhoods. An appeal has been filed with the Court of Appeals for the Fifth District of Texas to contest the temporary injunction granted by Dallas County District Court Judge Monica Purdy on December 6.

The city’s move to contest the injunction follows a lawsuit by a group of short-term rental operators, leading to the court’s decision that the new rules infringed upon property owners’ rights and potentially violated the constitution.

While the city refrained from commenting, the notice filed on December 26 with the appeals court indicated its intent to appeal the injunction, signaling a firm stance in the ongoing legal tussle.

This legal battle stems from the Dallas City Council’s decision in June to implement stringent regulations, aiming to curtail short-term rentals in single-family neighborhoods, responding to long-standing concerns about issues like noise, trash, and safety.

Despite attempts to regulate the industry, controversies persist, with operators challenging the imposed restrictions, citing concerns about the impact on their livelihoods. As Dallas grapples with striking a balance between regulation and property rights, the outcome of this appeal holds significant implications for the future landscape of short-term rentals in the city.