LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — There are more than 700 registered short-term rentals in the Lexington area, and possibly another 400 operating without a license.

There is now a hotline to report problems.

“This allows citizens to call and file complaints about all types of ordinance violations so we can know where they are and investigate and cite them,” said Director of Revenue Wesley Hollbrook.

He said the information will help streamline the process of receiving complaints to each department involved to resolve them faster.

Notices will be sent to property owners so they are aware of concerns about activities on their properties.

Examples of violations of the short-term rental ordinance include parties that exceed the occupancy of the property or if you violate the noise ordinance after 11 p.m.

Holbrook said you could also be cited if a crime is committed on the property. You could be cited for this, or if you’re operating without a license, you could be cited up to $500 per day.

He said the online portal allows people to provide evidence.

“That way, there’s a tool that allows us to collect photos and videos that complainants can attach that way so that we can use that to issue a subpoena or just part of our evidence gathering process,” Holbrook said.

LEX18 has reached out to Airbnb for comment. A spokesman said:

– Vincent Frillici, Public Policy Manager at Airbnb

The online portal can be accessed here.