Tulsa Police crack down on parties at short-term rentals

Q: What’s the issue with short-term rentals in Tulsa?

A: Tulsa Police say several recent shootings have occurred at short-term rental homes used to host parties — often in violation of city rules.

"If people are renting these locations out with the intention of a party, they're violating an ordinance." – Captain Richard Meulenberg, Tulsa Police

Q: How serious is the problem?

A: Police say the issue has escalated:

1. The first homicide of 2024 was a 14-year-old boy shot at a party inside a rental.
2. A recent shooting near Cry Baby Hill also stemmed from an unauthorized gathering at a rental home.

Q: What is the city doing about it?

A: Tulsa Police are enforcing strict short-term rental rules, and they’re putting property owners on notice.

Tulsa's Short-Term Rental Rules Include:

1. No more than 8 people allowed at any time
2. A local contact must be available 24/7
3. The contact must respond to police or code enforcement within 1 hour
4. The rental license must be posted inside the home
5. The license number must appear in all ads and listings

Q: What can neighbors do if they suspect violations?

A: Police urge neighbors to report violations to Tulsa Police or Code Enforcement as soon as possible.

“We want everybody to be safe… whatever information we can put out there to help, we’re going to do that.” – Captain Meulenberg

Q: How are responsible property owners responding?

A: Felisha Mims, who owns two Airbnbs in Tulsa but lives in Texas, says she takes her responsibilities seriously.

“I want to keep it safe. I want to keep it for years to come. I want to keep the neighborhood safe. So I am all for the police and enforcing that.” – Felisha Mims

Q: How does Mims help prevent issues at her properties?

A:

1. She monitors her rentals remotely
2. Keeps cameras outside the home
3. Posts her contact information clearly on windows in case of emergencies

“My phone number and also the person that looks over my properties—I have that phone number on the outside of the window just in case something happens.” – Felisha Mims

Q: What's the bottom line from Tulsa Police?

A: It’s about community safety. Police say they can’t do it alone — they need help from owners and neighbors alike to prevent tragedies.

📞 SEE SOMETHING? SAY SOMETHING:

If you suspect a short-term rental is violating city rules or hosting dangerous gatherings, contact Tulsa Police or Code Enforcement.