On 9/19/24, the Town of Highlands Board of Commissioners voted to amortize short-term rentals. The 4-1 decision would require all STR’s to cease renting their properties for less than 30 days in the R-1 and R-2 districts, comprising a large majority of the rentals in Highlands. This would go into effect starting September 19, 2027. This decision was against the advice of the Town of Highlands planning board, against the advice of Mayor Pat Taylor, and disregarded the Town’s paid legal council.
The Town of Highlands is the first municipality in the state of North Carolina to attempt using amortization to strip owners of their personal property rights in this manner. Historically, amortization is a tool meant to sunset the use of adult entertainment clubs, billboards, and trash facilities. Save Highlands is challenging this in court and we need your support to make that happen.
Who is Save Highlands?
Save Highlands is a group comprised of homeowners, business owners, local workers, and visitors who love and care about preserving the future of Highlands, North Carolina. We were established in 2021 after the Town of Highlands’ initial attempt to eliminate all vacation rentals inside the town limits. We have been holding the Town Commissioners accountable for following state law ever since. Our goal is to join together in unifying Highlands and it’s thriving economy while preserving it’s unique fabric, much of which thrives on tourism.
How can you support our cause?
Scan or click the QR code above and contribute to our legal challenge.
Why Donate?
Protect Jobs: Many locals rely on income from short-term rentals.
Support Small Businesses: Local shops, restaurants, and services depend on tourism.
Preserve Property Rights: Stand up for the rights of property owners.
Keep the Right to Make Memories: Ensure families can continue to create cherished memories while visiting Highlands.
Every Contribution Counts! Together, we can protect our community and ensure Highlands remains a vibrant place for residents and visitors alike.
Where Are We Now and Updates
09/19/2023 - Town of Highlands attempts to amortize
After a 2 year stay (waiting period) to give the NC legislature time to pass STR legislation, the town has voted to amortize STR’s starting in September 2027. This includes all rentals in the R-1 and R-2 zoning districts.
09/22/2021 - Save Highlands Reps File Appeal
Representative members of the Save Highlands group have filed an “Appeal of Decision of Zoning Administrator” with the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The Appeal was delivered to the office of the Planning and Development Director and Stormwater Administrator. Simply put, an appeal is one of the many potential remedies prior to filing a lawsuit.
09/07/2021 - Old Edwards Announces Support of Vacation Rentals
Richard M. Delany, President of Old Edwards Hospitality Group, sends a letter publicly announcing support of vacation rentals. He outlines the immediate detrimental impact regulations will have on the town’s small businesses and the local economy.
09/03/2021 - Legal Update
Our attorneys with Allen Stahl + Kilbourne submitted a records request to the Town of Highlands and Mayor Pat Taylor. Copies have been mailed via certified letter and copied to the town attorney, Jay Coward. The certified letter is public. Please click here to view the letter.