Osaka to tighten rules for private lodgings in wooden buildings over noise concerns

The Osaka Municipal Government plans to introduce stricter regulations for private lodging businesses, such as Airbnb-style accommodations, because of increasing complaints about noise and other problems. The city will submit a bill to the Osaka Municipal Assembly in September. If approved, the new rules could take effect as early as October.

Under the proposed rules, new private lodging facilities in condominiums and other buildings where people live will generally not be allowed in wooden or steel-framed buildings because sound can easily travel outside. Private lodgings will instead be limited to reinforced-concrete and other buildings with better soundproofing. The rules will also require front desks or management offices to have staff regularly available while guests are staying.

The city also wants lodging operators to warn guests about noise and proper garbage disposal. The stricter rules come after Osaka stopped accepting new applications for special-zone private lodgings in May, which led to a sharp increase in applications for regular private lodgings. Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama said the city wants residents to feel safe and less worried about nuisance behavior.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source:  https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260904/p2a/00m/0na/011000c

Comprehension

Why does Osaka plan to tighten regulations on private lodging businesses?
When will the city submit the new bill to the Osaka Municipal Assembly?
Which types of buildings will generally not be allowed to operate new private lodging facilities?
What type of buildings will private lodging businesses be limited to?
What measures will lodging operators need to take regarding noise and garbage?

Discussion

Do you think private lodging businesses are good for local communities? Why or why not?
What problems can tourists staying in residential areas cause?
Do you think noise complaints from short-term guests are a serious problem? Why?
Should governments restrict where private lodging businesses can operate?
Would you prefer to stay in a hotel or a private lodging when traveling? Why?
How can tourists show respect to people living near their accommodation?
Do you think Airbnb-style businesses should have the same rules as hotels? Why or why not?
Should building owners be responsible for their guests’ behavior?
How can cities balance the needs of tourists, business owners, and local residents?
Have you ever experienced a problem with noisy neighbors or tourists? What happened?

Vocabulary

Ordinance — a local law or rule made by a city or municipality.
Nuisance — something that causes annoyance, trouble, or discomfort.
Noise problem — an issue caused by unwanted or excessive sound.
Row house — one of a group of houses connected side by side.
Soundproofing — materials or methods used to prevent sound from passing through walls.
Front desk — a place where guests can receive help and information.
Municipal assembly — a local government body that makes decisions and laws for a city.
Resident — a person who lives in a particular place.