On April 22, 2025, a court issued a temporary restraining order preventing the City of St. Louis from enforcing Ordinance 71729, which governs short-term rentals in the city. As a result, the city has paused all activity related to the permitting and regulation of short-term rentals, including accepting new applications, conducting inspections, issuing permits, and collecting associated fees. This pause also affects the recently passed Proposition S, halting the collection of the 3% fee approved by voters in November 2024.
While the legal dispute continues, short-term rentals can continue to operate in the City of St. Louis without permits as required under the challenged ordinance. The next court hearing is scheduled for May 5, 2025, at which time the judge will decide whether to extend or alter the restraining order. Until further guidance is issued by the court, short-term rental platforms are allowed to keep listings active that do not currently comply with Ordinance 71729.
This legal development introduces a period of uncertainty for investors and property owners operating or considering entering the short-term rental market in St. Louis. Anyone involved in or impacted by these operations should pay close attention to the court’s next decision. We’ll provide timely updates as more information becomes available.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we continue to monitor this closely to keep our clients informed and empowered to make confident real estate decisions.
Full court order below: