The closure of bars and nightclubs has led to an increase in big house parties, and gatherings of people at homes, sometimes at rental properties by Airbnb. Due to the recent complaints about large gatherings being held at their homes in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Airbnb announced a global ban on parties and events at Airbnb listings, with an occupancy cap of 16 people worldwide.
The company is trying to better follow local health departments’ social distancing requirements for large gatherings. "This party ban applies to all future bookings on Airbnb and it will remain in effect indefinitely until further notice," said Airbnb in a statement. While some of its host properties permit small gatherings such as birthday parties or baby showers, 73 percent of its listings already ban parties.
Airbnb will also pursue legal action against guests and hosts who violate the ban. Last week, for the first time, Airbnb took legal action against a guest who held an unauthorized party in Sacramento County, California.