June 29, 2023

1:00pm – 2:00pm

Code:  Regulating Short-term Rentals

Where we’ve been and where we can go. This presentation will discuss lessons learned and recent trends related to regulating short-term rentals (STRs). This includes the application of the dormant commerce clause, due process, equal protection, and takings provisions of the Constitution; and the role of zoning tools, regulating platforms, and business regulations in improving compliance. Lastly, this presentation will consider what success looks like.

Speaker: Trish Link & Ashley J. Becnel

Trish Link started with the City of Austin’s Law Department in 2005 as a municipal court prosecutor and since that time has worked in the Litigation, Land Use and Real Estate, General Counsel, and Municipal Operations divisions. Trish was designated an IMLA Fellow in 2020. Currently, she is the division chief for the Land Use and Real Estate Division in the City of Austin’s Law Department and the Chair of IMLA’s Code Enforcement Section.

Ashley Becnel is the Chief Zoning Official for the City of New Orleans, overseeing zoning, short term rentals, alcoholic beverage licensing and enforcement, special events, rental registry, and code enforcement adjudications, and leading legislative efforts in these and other areas. Ashley previously served as an Assistant City Attorney in the City of New Orleans’ Law Department, serving as in-house counsel on land use matters and advising the Mayor's Office and other City departments on contracts, procurement, and legislative matters.  While in private practice, Ashley worked with several local municipalities, providing advice and counsel, and representing cities in litigation matters.  Ashley holds a JD and a BA from Tulane University and is a Loyola Institute of Politics Fellow.