Are HOAs Getting Stricter About Short-Term Rentals in 2025?

The short-term rental (STR) landscape is changing fast — and not just because of city regulations. Across Central Oregon and beyond, homeowners associations (HOAs) are stepping in with tighter restrictions, higher fines, and stricter oversight on vacation rentals.

If you’re an investor, homeowner, or potential buyer hoping to generate rental income, it’s crucial to understand how HOA policies are evolving in 2025 — especially in popular areas like Bend, Redmond, and Sisters.

Why HOAs Are Cracking Down on Short-Term Rentals

The rise of Airbnb and VRBO brought both opportunity and tension to residential neighborhoods. While some owners love the flexibility and income, many full-time residents complain about:

• Noise and parking issues

• Frequent guest turnover

• Safety and privacy concerns

• Reduced long-term housing supply

As a result, HOAs are under pressure to preserve community stability and protect property values — leading to stricter rental regulations across Central Oregon.

What’s Changing in 2025

1. More HOAs Are Banning Rentals Under 30 Days

In Bend and Redmond, many HOAs are revising their CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) to prohibit rentals shorter than 30 days. This effectively eliminates most Airbnb-style stays.

2. Higher Fines and Enforcement

Violations now come with steeper fines — often hundreds per day — and HOAs are hiring property management companies or compliance officers to monitor listings.

3. Occupancy and Parking Rules

Even in communities that still allow STRs, HOAs are tightening occupancy limits and enforcing quiet hours, parking rules, and guest behavior clauses.

4. Local Regulations Are Getting Stricter Too

The City of Bend increased buffer zones between licensed STRs from 250 to 500 feet and requires annual license renewals. Sisters also recently amended its STR code to reduce negative neighborhood impacts. These city rules often work hand-in-hand with HOA restrictions.

Central Oregon Examples

• Bend: Fewer homes qualify for STR licenses due to spacing limits, and HOA-managed communities like Northwest Crossing have added stricter clauses.

• Sisters: Updated its code to reduce the total number of short-term rentals in residential zones.

• Deschutes County: Considering a countywide licensing program to better track rural vacation rentals.

If you’re eyeing investment properties near Sunriver or Black Butte, expect more oversight and possible permit requirements.

How HOA Restrictions Affect Investors

Factor	Impact on Investors
Rental Flexibility	Limited — many HOAs now allow only long-term or mid-term stays (30+ days)
Property Value Stability	Usually positive — fewer transient guests can stabilize home values
Cash Flow Potential	Reduced — but lower risk of fines and complaints
Management Simplicity	Easier compliance if you switch to long-term rentals
Future Investment Strategy	Smart investors are diversifying — combining STRs in unregulated areas with mid-term or long-term rentals in HOA communities

Tips for Homeowners and Investors

1. Review HOA Documents Carefully Always read the CC&Rs and bylaws before buying. Some HOAs have long-standing STR bans, while others may amend them soon.

2. Check Local City Ordinances Even if your HOA allows STRs, you’ll still need to comply with Bend or Redmond’s licensing, tax, and buffer zone rules.

3. Budget for Compliance Expect to pay for permits, safety inspections, and possible legal consultations to stay compliant.

4. Consider Mid-Term Rentals Leasing for 1–6 months to traveling nurses, contractors, or relocators can balance income with compliance.

5. Stay Involved Attend HOA meetings. Owners who stay informed have more influence when new rules are proposed.

In 2025, HOAs across Central Oregon are definitely getting stricter about short-term rentals. What used to be a side hustle is now a highly regulated business model.

If you plan to invest or rent out your home, do your homework — review HOA rules, confirm local licensing, and consider flexible strategies like mid-term rentals.

FAQs

Q: Can an HOA ban short-term rentals even if my city allows them?

A: Yes. HOAs can enforce stricter rules than the city — and those rules are legally binding if they’re written into the CC&Rs.

Q: What happens if I violate my HOA’s rental rules?

A: You could face fines, loss of community privileges, or even legal action. Some HOAs can place liens on your property for unpaid fines.

Q: How can I find out if an HOA is planning new restrictions?

A: Check board meeting minutes, proposed amendments, and community newsletters. HOAs must provide notice before changing bylaws.

Q: Are there still HOA communities in Central Oregon that allow STRs?

A: Yes — some smaller or newer communities remain open to short-term rentals, but they’re becoming rarer each year.