The Del Mar City Council approved a 10-point framework on October 2. The framework aims to regulate short-term rentals based on a comprehensive analysis of existing policies in 17 other cities. This framework is intended to be the foundation of Del Mar's future short-term rental regulations. An ordinance draft, built on this basis, is expected for presentation to the Planning Commission and City Council in early 2024, as mentioned in a City of Del Mar official announcement.

Beginning in 2016, the city's journey to regulate short-term rentals faced multiple halts due to legal challenges, enforcement considerations, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Work on this important project resumed in 2023. Critical milestones include the City Council confirming guiding principles for new regulations in July, and adding a 12th guiding principle in September. A thorough timeline of the project is available in a Del Mar City article.

Key components of the 10-point framework cover crucial regulatory aspects. The rules and restrictions for short-term rental operators and the requirements for permits are defined within. The framework provides for regulating short-term rentals based on whether they are primary or owner-occupied residences or properties rented full-time to short-term guests. Operators are expected to hold a $1 million insurance policy and a non-transferable permit. And also maintain records for auditing and property inspection as part of permit approval.

Aside from regulating short-term rentals, the framework encourages a more amicable relationship between residents and operators. An expectation of providing onsite contact information and sharing with neighbors is set. The framework also extends to include a 5% limit on short-term rentals city-wide, enforcement of caps in certain neighborhoods, regulations for multi-unit properties, a minimum three-night stay policy, and a minimum rental age of 25.

Also emphasized in the framework is the incorporation of good-neighbor policies. This addresses concerns like noise, occupancy, waste management, and parking. Compliance with existing codes under the good neighbor policy by both operators and tenants is expected, while the council finds an approach for monitoring, enforcement, and taxation.

In light of the council's interests, a voluntary short-term rental registry was initiated by the city of Del Mar in September. The registry encourages owners active within the last decade to register by December 5. The data collected will aid policy development as it will not be used for code enforcement purposes but instead will help in accommodating existing rentals. More details about this initiative are available in a Del Mar City article.