Boulder city council plans to ease short-term rental rules for Sundance festival

In Boulder, Colorado, the city council is exploring options to simplify the licensing process for short-term rentals ahead of the Sundance Film Festival. This proposal addresses the unique demand for housing that the festival generates, as thousands of visitors are expected to arrive in less than two years. Currently, homeowners face stringent requirements to obtain a rental license, which limits their ability to capitalize on the influx of tourists. As the film festival approaches, many locals, such as resident Caroline Hall, have expressed enthusiasm about the event and see an opportunity to monetize their homes. The proposed changes would allow residents to rent their homes for a limited time, specifically during the festival, and make the application process more accessible. Boulder Mayor Sam Brockett emphasized that the city aims to mitigate price gouging, as astronomical rental rates of up to $30,000 for just two weeks have been reported in previous years. This approach seeks to ensure that lodging remains affordable for attendees from various backgrounds. Local residents like Kempton are considering how they might benefit financially by renting out their spaces temporarily, indicating a collective entrepreneurial spirit inspired by the upcoming festival. However, there are concerns among some tenants about potential housing insecurity during such high-demand events, prompting locals to advocate for reasonable protections in the proposed policy. The Boulder city council plans to discuss this initiative on September 18, where public input will be welcomed. This meeting is part of a broader effort by the city to prepare for the upcoming Sundance Film Festival, demonstrating a proactive approach to address accommodation challenges and enhance the visitor experience while considering the needs of longstanding residents.