Shinjuku to ban most short-term rentals in residential and school zones

Shinjuku Ward has finalized an amendment to its local regulations that will broadly forbid short-term lodging services in purely residential neighborhoods and in zones designated for cultural or educational use. The change is expected to affect more than half of the 3,775 registered rentals, with roughly 2,000 establishments facing possible closure. In addition, the permissible number of rental days in commercial districts will be reduced from one outlet 180 to 120 per year.

Authorities plan to grant a transition period for current operators who continue to live on the premises and satisfy specific criteria. The move follows a surge in complaints about waste, noise, and unauthorized access linked to short-term rentals, which rose sharply in recent reports. Officials hope the stricter controls will ease resident grievances while acknowledging concerns that accommodation shortages may follow.