Short-term rentals (STRs), commonly referred to as "vacation rentals," are heavily regulated in New York County, New York. The rentals are legal, provided that hosts comply with strict regulations mandated by Local Law 18, which requires registration with the Mayor's Office of Special Enforcement (OSE). Hosts are only permitted to offer their own residences for short-term rentals if they are present during the guests' stay, and rental transactions must be conducted through licensed platforms. This environment primarily supports urban apartments, particularly those in areas frequented by tourists, given New York's robust tourism sector amplified by business events year-round. The market caters predominantly to visitors seeking accommodations for a diverse range of purposes, from leisure to business travel. The OSE oversees the regulatory framework for short-term rentals and enforces compliance to maintain safety and fair practices. For more detailed information on short-term rental regulations, visit the NYC government page at.