Austin’s short-term rental ordinance is not only bad public policy, but it also violates the Texas Constitution in a whole host of ways. Austin’s unconstitutional overreach must be corrected. This lawsuit, Zaatari, et. al. v. City of Austin, et. al., raises seven separate constitutional concerns with Austin’s STR ordinance.
Restoring Private Property Rights: Regulatory Takings
Municipal regulations like zoning ordinances can infringe on private property rights and distort the housing market. Key points: Private property rights are under threat from municipal zoning ordinances and design mandates. Texas law has failed to adequately protect property owners from regulatory takings. By closing the municipal loophole, Texas can be the national leader in...