Kelly(AVP): Vacation rental rules must protect housing

ORANJESTAD — AVP parliamentarian Dennerich Kelly is asking the government to clarify its vacation rental regulations, which he says must recognise the sector’s contribution to tourism while protecting residents’ access to affordable housing.

Kelly recalled that in April 2024 the government announced the policy was nearing completion, including registration, permits, inspections and tax compliance. He wants to know which measures have been implemented.

The parliamentarian says the rules must distinguish between individuals renting out a room or an additional property and commercial operators managing multiple tourist rentals. He proposes assessing zoning and other measures to prevent excessive concentrations in residential neighbourhoods.

Kelly is requesting updated figures on vacation rentals, long-term rentals and housing prices, with input from the sectors involved and residents. “We should not speculate. We should measure,” he concluded.