Airbnb Rental Laws and Regulations Lake Tahoe, CA

How does Lake Tahoe, CA define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?

• An entire residential dwelling that is rented to one party. 
• A public transient lodging establishment that is rented to guests for durations shorter than 30 consecutive calendar days. 

Please note that in the following information we may use the terms “vacation rental” and “short-term rental” synonymously. 

Source: City of SLT Vacation Rental Info

Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Lake Tahoe, CA? 

Yes!  In Lake Tahoe, CA, investors are permitted to own more than one vacation rental property, provided they adhere to the local regulations and requirements.

Source: City of SLT Vacation Rental Info

Does Lake Tahoe, CA have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, Lake Tahoe, CA has zoning restrictions for short-term (Airbnb) rentals (STRs). The zoning regulations vary depending on the specific location within Lake Tahoe, as it covers both California and Nevada, each with its own local ordinances. It’s crucial for property owners to check the zoning regulations and ordinances of the specific jurisdiction in which their property is located to ensure compliance with STR rules.

Source: Hosted Rental Regulations

In Lake Tahoe, CA can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity? 

Yes, investors in Lake Tahoe, CA can own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity, such as an LLC or corporation. However, they must still adhere to local regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses required for Airbnb rentals. It’s essential to comply with all local laws and ordinances governing vacation rentals and business operations in the area.

Source: City of SLT Vacation Rental Info

In Lake Tahoe, CA, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals?

In Lake Tahoe, CA, investors can register accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals with certain restrictions. Hosted rentals, where the “host” lives on the same property, are not allowed to use ADUs for short-term rentals. However, it’s important to check the specific zoning regulations and local ordinances in the area for detailed requirements and limitations regarding these types of properties.

Source: Hosted Rental Regulations

What is the Lake Tahoe, CA requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Lake Tahoe, CA, you typically need to follow these general steps:

• Residential Zone Eligibility: Ensure your property is located within a residential zone and that you, as the owner, are a permanent resident of the City of South Lake Tahoe.
• Primary Residence Proof: Provide proof of a primary residence property tax exemption as part of your application. This demonstrates that you qualify for the Measure T regulations.
• Qualified Vacation Home Rental Permit Application: Complete and submit a Qualified Vacation Home Rental Permit application to the local authorities. This application will detail your intent to vacation rent the entire dwelling for a specific number of days per the one-year permit period.
• Permit Approval: Await approval of your Vacation Home Rental Permit, which will outline the number of allowable rental days within the one-year permit period.
• Compliance: Ensure that your vacation rental activities comply with the approved permit’s terms and conditions, which may include restrictions on the number of days or other regulations.
• Tax Compliance: If required, register with the local tax authorities to collect and remit transient occupancy taxes from guests.

Source: Hosted Rental Regulations

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Lake Tahoe, CA?

In Lake Tahoe, CA, the costs associated with obtaining and renewing a Vacation Rental License are as follows:

• New Permit: The initial application for a Vacation Rental License costs $400.
• Renewal: To renew the Vacation Rental License, property owners are required to pay a renewal fee of $250.
• Property Management: Property management companies must hold a Nevada State Realtor license, which may involve separate costs and requirements.

Source: City of SLT Vacation Rental Info

Does Lake Tahoe, CA have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

In Lake Tahoe, CA, the occupancy limits for Vacation Rentals are determined based on the number of occupants per bedroom and the availability of paved parking spaces. The formula for calculating occupancy is 2 occupants per bedroom, plus 4 occupants, with a limitation based on the number of paved parking places, each measuring 19′ x 9′, calculated at 4 occupants per vehicle.

Source: VHRs In Non-Residential Areas

Does Lake Tahoe, CA require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?

Yes, Lake Tahoe, CA, requires inspections as part of the process for investors to obtain a Vacation Rental (VHR) license. The inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with building and fire codes, as well as other relevant regulations. Specific physical and structural requirements for vacation rentals are typically related to safety and may include fire safety measures, adequate exits, smoke detectors, and adherence to building codes. 

Source: Vacation Rental Ordinance

Does Lake Tahoe, CA have any responsible agent requirements?

Yes, Lake Tahoe, CA, may require a responsible agent for vacation rental properties, and this individual or entity should be available to manage and oversee the rental property as needed. Specific requirements and responsibilities for responsible agents can vary, so it’s essential for property owners to ensure they have a designated agent who can fulfill these duties according to local regulations.

Source: Vacation Rental Ordinance

Does Lake Tahoe, CA have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

Yes, Lake Tahoe, CA, typically has specific insurance requirements for vacation rentals. Property owners are often required to maintain liability insurance coverage, and the policy must meet certain minimum coverage limits. Additionally, property owners may be required to provide proof of insurance as part of the vacation rental permitting process.

Source: Vacation Rental Ordinance

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Lake Tahoe, CAVacation Rental license?

In Lake Tahoe, CA, vacation rental licenses are typically valid for one year before requiring renewal. Property owners must ensure they renew their licenses on time to continue operating their vacation rentals legally.

Source: City of SLT Vacation Rental Info

In Lake Tahoe, CA, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Lake Tahoe, CA?

Yes, Airbnb and VRBO do remit taxes on the host’s behalf in Lake Tahoe, CA. However, there may still be certain taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Lake Tahoe, CA, so it’s advisable for hosts to stay informed about their tax obligations and consult with local authorities if needed.

Source: El Dorado County Tax Code

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Lake Tahoe, CA  Vacation Rentals?

Lake Tahoe City Planning Division: planning@cityofslt.us or (530) 542-6010

Are there any new laws and regulations that the city is requiring?

At the time of writing this, Get Chalet did not find any new laws or regulations being required by Lake Tahoe, CA.