South Lake Tahoe, CA, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and recreational activities, has become a popular destination for tourists and a lucrative market for short-term rental properties.
Platforms like Airbnb have made it easier for homeowners to rent out their properties, but with the growing popularity, local governments have had to step in to regulate these rentals to balance the interests of residents, property owners, and visitors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the current regulations for short-term rentals in South Lake Tahoe, CA, and provide resources for property owners looking to navigate these rules.
Understanding Short-Term Rental Regulations
In South Lake Tahoe, short-term rentals (STRs) refer to properties rented for 30 consecutive days or less. The city has implemented specific regulations to manage the impact of these rentals on the local community. Here are some key points to understand:
Permit Requirements
To operate an Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe, property owners must obtain a Vacation Home Rental (VHR) permit. The permit process includes:
- Application Submission: Property owners must submit a completed application form along with the required fees.
- Inspection: The property must pass an inspection to ensure it meets all safety and code requirements.
- Neighborhood Notification: Adjacent property owners must be notified of the intent to operate a short-term rental.
- Good Neighbor Policies: Owners must agree to adhere to policies designed to minimize the impact on neighbors, such as noise restrictions and parking regulations.
Zoning Restrictions
South Lake Tahoe has zoning laws that affect where short-term rentals can operate. In residential zones, stricter rules apply, including:
- Occupancy Limits: The number of occupants allowed in an Airbnb is typically limited to two per bedroom plus two additional occupants.
- Parking Requirements: Adequate on-site parking must be provided, with specific guidelines on the number of vehicles allowed.
- Prohibited Areas: Some areas, particularly certain residential neighborhoods, may have outright bans on new short-term rental permits.
Compliance and Enforcement
The city has a dedicated team to ensure compliance with STR regulations. This includes:
- Regular Inspections: Properties are subject to periodic inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.
- Complaint Handling: A 24/7 hotline is available for neighbors to report issues with short-term rentals, and violations can result in fines or permit revocation.
- Renewal Process: Permits must be renewed annually, and owners must demonstrate compliance with all regulations to continue operating.
