Changing the Law?

[Lois Stern]

 Regarding the rental law in many cities that prohibits renting to more than 2, sometimes 3 adults with different last names... Can anyone explain the purpose of this law as it pertains to modern times?  I believe it may have started regarding women and brothels.  

It seems to me that without owning an apartment complex, one cannot lawfully rent to college students AND make money.  2 students cannot afford the amount it costs to rent a house.  Our city's law states that an exception can be made for a rooming house, but then puts criteria into effect that keeps that from happening.  I've done some research, and it seems that there has NEVER been an exception to create a rooming house in this city.

Yet, there are at least 20 houses directly across from the university that I have done some research on - and none of them are owner occupied.  I am 99.9% positive that they are all rented to students ... and more than the 2 we are allowed.  I'm guessing this has gone under the heading "if no one complains, who will know"... and am at an ethical crossroads.

I want to buy one of these homes and rent to students.  I'd think there are enough folks who are either NOT filing as landlords or lying.  And that, if banded together, they could make a good claim for changing the law.  But ... who wants to rock the boat and put a spotlight on themselves?  I have not purchased yet... and really just putting this out there for some healthy debate about this.  Thanks for your comments in advance!