Lakewood to Consider Short-Term Rental Pause

City Council will review a proposed six-month moratorium on new rental permits at its meeting on October 19, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Apartments

Isometric editorial illustration featuring a stylized architectural house model on a plinth, representing municipal policy and residential regulation. — Lakewood City Council will vote on a proposed six-month moratorium on new short-term rental permits during their meeting on October 19, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your local government place a moratorium on new short-term rental permits?

Lakewood City Council will vote on a six-month moratorium on new short-term rental permits during their upcoming meeting on October 19, 2026. The proposed measure applies to properties rented for fewer than 30 days while excluding hotels and motels.

Why it matters

The pause seeks to provide time for officials to evaluate how short-term rental activity impacts neighborhood stability and city income tax revenue. This review will address local regulations and potential alignment with state housing laws.

The proposed moratorium defines short-term rentals as properties leased for fewer than 30 days and takes effect 14 days after enactment if approved. Existing rentals would be prohibited from expanding during the six-month term.

The players

Lakewood City Council

This is the primary legislative body responsible for governing the city and determining local housing and business regulations.

The details

The resolution would stop the city from issuing new certificates of occupancy or building permits for short-term rental properties. The council maintains the authority to terminate the moratorium early if new ordinances are adopted or the measure is revoked.

The Lakewood City Council reviewed short-term rental legislation throughout 2025.
Council members are scheduled to discuss the new moratorium resolution on Monday October 19, 2026.

Culture Shift

The proposal reflects a broader societal movement among municipalities aiming to balance the rise of platform-based lodging with the need for long-term residential availability. This shift often pits the flexibility of the gig economy against the preservation of traditional neighborhood tax bases.

Residents currently operating short-term rentals will see a freeze on any potential property expansions if the measure passes. Those looking to enter the short-term rental market in Lakewood will face a significant delay until the city completes its regulatory review.

The takeaway

This proposal indicates a tightening of regulations that could fundamentally change how property owners utilize their homes for short-term lodging. Owners should stay informed about potential rule changes that may influence their investment and rental strategies.