Whittier City Council Unanimously Approves Short-Term Rental Ordinance With New Fire Hazard Restrictions

In a unanimous vote following more than two hours of intense public comment, the Whittier City Council voted to approve a comprehensive short-term rental (STR) ordinance that includes a new ban on STRs located within designated high fire hazard zones. The ordinance incorporates twelve key provisions drafted by city staff and now aligns with Whittier’s newly approved Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) map.

The decision comes after months of deliberation dating back to 2023, and follows extensive input from residents both in support of and opposed to STRs. The city’s planning department stated that while many residents appreciate the economic benefits of STRs, nearly all stakeholders agreed that enforceable rules and accountability are necessary.

Key Details from the Staff Report

The ordinance establishes the following:

• STRs will be prohibited in all areas classified as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, which include properties in red, orange, and now yellow zones on the newly adopted fire hazard map. The prohibition is aimed at reducing fire risks from transient occupancy, especially in hillside neighborhoods with narrow streets and limited emergency access.

• Only STRs in the lower-risk white areas of Whittier will be allowed to apply for permits, provided they meet residential requirements and operational guidelines.

• STR hosts must prove residency and proximity to their STR property. Acceptable forms of verification include voter registration, utility bills, or other documentation showing the owner resides at or near the STR address.

• All STRs must adhere to a new “Good Neighbor” guide, which outlines behavioral expectations for guests, noise limits, trash disposal rules, and emergency procedures.

• STR operators will be held responsible for guests’ conduct, including any property damage, excessive noise, blocked driveways, and illegal fireworks.

• The city will employ software tools to monitor STR listings and ensure only licensed operators appear on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.

• Fines will be levied for unauthorized rentals, violations of city rules, or failure to respond to neighbor complaints within a timely manner.

During deliberations, Councilmember Cathy Warner and Councilmember Mary Ann Pacheco both emphasized the need to act decisively to protect residents, especially those in wildfire-prone zones. “One ember can go very far,” said Pacheco in support of the ban. Councilmember Octavio Martinez voiced caution about overregulating responsible STR operators in low-risk zones, but agreed that red, orange, and yellow zones should be off-limits.

The ordinance’s adoption follows public concerns about safety, housing availability, and the disruption of neighborhood character. Residents from Rideout Street, Turnbull Canyon, and Whittier Hills spoke of fireworks, late-night parties, and fears of evacuation due to STR guests’ negligence.

City staff confirmed there are currently more than ten STRs operating in the restricted zones. Those units will now be phased out under the new law.

Councilmembers clarified that although the ordinance is now adopted, further outreach and public education will be conducted in the coming weeks, and enforcement mechanisms will be developed in coordination with code enforcement and the Whittier Police Department.

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