The debate over whether and in what circumstances to allow transient short-term rentals of apartments in New York City continues to play out in real-time. Airbnb, the well-known online platform that makes a business of facilitating such arrangements, is engaged in a massive advertising campaign designed to sway public opinion and ultimately convince New York's legislators to enact regulations legalizing apartment-sharing. Similar efforts already have been successful in San Francisco and Portland.

Its motivations are obvious: according to an October 2014 report released by the New York State Attorney General, Airbnb earned revenues of $61 million in 2010-2014 from home rentals in New York City, most of which are illegal under present New York state and city laws. Affordable housing advocates and the hotel industry, among others, have countered Airbnb's efforts by arguing that any amendment of the existing laws would undermine long-standing public policies intended to protect both New York City residents and visiting tourists.

To its supporters, apartment-sharing through websites such as Airbnb is a catalyst for entrepreneurship, enabling middle-class New Yorkers to make additional income by renting out their apartments. To its detractors, it allows landlords to convert apartments otherwise available for long-term rental into illegal hotels that threaten the safety of guests and neighbors alike and make New York City less affordable. This article explores the current legal landscape.