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Short-term rentals, like Airbnb units, have become a very popular option for travelers who want to enjoy a new location without checking into a hotel. According to recent statistics, about 60% of Airbnb users are millennials. With so many younger people seeking out these short-term rentals, it’s not all that surprising that there has also been a rising trend of partying in these units, too, especially in Las Vegas.
As a result of the increase in short-term rental disturbances, Las Vegas Metro Police have started out the spring break season by doing unannounced spot checks on known Airbnb units in the area.
Police officers are literally going door to door at these rentals. During these checks, police are informing residents about the area’s noise ordinances. They’re also warning everyone against hosting large parties or facilitating underage drinking.
Some visitors to the area are confused by these visits. Some tourists are saying that there is no purpose in doing these checks if nobody has complained. The Greater Las Vegas Short Term Rental Association agrees with tourists and has questioned police over the need for these spot checks.
There has been an ongoing debate over this important issue in Clark County. Recently, an ordinance was issued that banned parties and events where more people are at the event than the residential unit can occupy. In February, however, a judge ruled that the ordinance was too ambiguous and vague to be enforceable.
If you’re a lover of the Constitution, then you might be wondering – are these spot checks a violation of every American’s right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures? That’s a valid question considering that it’s illegal for authorities to search a property without a valid warrant. It’s important to note, however, that authorities aren’t “searching” properties but rather “informing” residents.
Despite that, authorities can still walk into situations in which they do discover criminal activity occurring. If police decide to initiate a spot check and they walk up onto an illegal situation, then an arrest may follow.
If that happens to you, then you’ll want to get informed regarding your legal rights as soon as possible. To learn more about whether the police violated your rights, it might be best to consult with a lawyer about what happened. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys now to learn more about how we can help.
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