Property owners who list their properties on digital platforms like Airbnb should be required to obtain a municipal business license, ensuring they operate “under clear criteria and with social responsibility,” stated Jalisco legislator Omar Cervantes Rivera this week.
Cervantes Rivera, a representative of the Movimiento Ciudadano (MC), presented an overview of the current situation regarding short-term rentals offered on digital platforms, which he described as “excessive” in many areas of Jalisco.
In Guadalajara, the most saturated neighborhoods are Colonia Americana and La Obrera, where over 1,500 apartments are listed on Airbnb. Similar saturation levels are found in other parts of the metropolitan area such as Providencia, Colinas de San Javier, and El Palomar. Further afield in the state, Puerto Vallarta has around 8,000 homes or apartments for rent on digital platforms, while Mazamitla and the Lake Chapala north shore area boast more than 1,500.
Cervantes Rivera made these remarks during the fifth public forum aimed at gathering input for a new state Rental Law. The forums have been addressing various issues including rent caps, accessible housing, and strategies for dealing with vacant properties.
“Landlords now prefer to rent through these platforms rather than to private individuals due to inadequate legislation, and this is an issue we need to tackle,” Cervantes explained.
The legislator intends to propose legislation requiring property owners who rent out their homes or apartments through digital platforms to obtain municipal licenses and adhere to all established health and safety regulations. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that neighbors are fully informed about these rental businesses operating nearby.