Idaho has a new law to govern how short-term vacation rentals, like those marketed on Airbnb and other services, are regulated and taxed, and it may bring peace in a long-simmering fight over the growing industry.

The bill, which Gov. Butch Otter signed into law earlier this month, forbids cities or counties in Idaho from banning short-term vacation rentals, which are home rentals for 30 days or less. But it does allow local governments to regulate them with regard to health, safety and welfare; requires zoning ordinances to recognize them as a residential use; and also requires collection of state sales and lodging taxes/Betsy Russell, Eye on Boise. More here.

DFO: Two of the three members of my family rents a vacation home for a week or more when they visit Coeur d'Alene, usually in the Fort Grounds area. But my sister rented one on Tubbs Hill two summers ago. I'm planning to rent one in central California for an upcoming wedding. This is a welcome development.