San Diego’s Efforts to Close Illegal Eviction Loophole Fall Short

San Diego is facing scrutiny as an illegal eviction loophole persists, allowing property owners to gain short-term rental licenses even after carrying out unlawful evictions. Councilmember Jennifer Campbell, who has pledged to address this issue, failed to bring the necessary amendments to committee before her impending departure due to term limits. With less than two months remaining in her term, the loophole enables owners to convert long-term housing into short-term rentals, exacerbating the city’s housing crisis.

The loophole primarily involves no-fault evictions, which occur for reasons unrelated to tenant behavior. Although state law stipulates processes for terminating leases under specific circumstances, the lack of enforcement has allowed exploitation by investors seeking to profit from short-term rentals. While some councilmembers express optimism about proposed amendments from Campbell, many residents are left anxious as they face evictions, with no clarity on the resolution of these issues.