Regulatory Approaches to Short-Term Rental Accommodation: A Systematic Literature Review for Urban Policy

This paper aims to review the extant literature on regulatory systems for short-term rental (STR) accommodation. By conducting a systematic literature review of 65 studies, we identify prevailing trends, methodological approaches, and geographic patterns. We aim to propose guiding principles for STR governance, focusing on the effectiveness of regulatory tools. Our findings support tiered regulatory frameworks that differentiate casual hosts from commercial operators. Specifically, caps on rental nights, quality standards, and eviction restrictions control STR supply effectively. Taxation supports balanced spatial distribution and market stability. To implement these measures responsibly, policymakers should prioritize verified impacts over perceived ones. While community concerns matter, evidence suggests that STRs’ role in gentrification may be overstated compared to broader socioeconomic trends. Nonetheless, residential criticism has been shown to influence STR policymaking. All things considered, addressing demonstrable issues, such as noise and nuisance, requires clear accountability mechanisms, while housing challenges demand broader policy solutions..