7 Step Guide to Cleveland Short-Term Rental Regulations
1. City Overview: Short-Term Rental Landscape
Cleveland, Ohio, has implemented regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) to balance tourism with neighborhood stability. STRs are subject to licensing, zoning, and tax obligations to ensure compliance with city laws. Non-owner-occupied STRs have additional requirements compared to owner-occupied STRs.
For the most up-to-date short-term rental data, including occupancy rates, average daily rates, and revenue trends, visit the Chalet Market Dashboard.
2. Quick Facts
- Permit Required? Yes, all STRs must obtain a Non-Owner-Occupied Rental License (if applicable) and a Rental Registration Certificate.
- Zoning Restrictions? STRs must comply with zoning laws, and non-owner-occupied STRs are limited in some residential areas.
- Maximum Occupancy: Defined by zoning and property classification.
- Tax Requirements: STR operators must collect and remit city and state lodging taxes.
- Renewal Frequency: Annual renewal required for permits and rental licenses.
- Registration Fees:
- Rental Registration Certificate: $70 per unit
- Non-Owner-Occupied STR License: $250 per year
- Business License (if applicable): Varies based on revenue
- Insurance Required? Recommended for liability protection.
- Enforcement Level: Active enforcement, with fines for non-compliance.
3. Getting Started with STRs in Cleveland (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance
Before applying for an STR license, property owners must confirm their rental is in an eligible zoning district.
- Check Zoning Maps: STRs must be located in permitted zoning districts.
- Where to Verify Zoning: Cleveland Zoning Map
- Contact Cleveland Planning & Zoning Department:
- Phone: (216) 664-2210
- Email: zoning@clevelandohio.gov
Step 2: Obtain a Rental Registration Certificate & Non-Owner-Occupied Rental License
All STR operators must obtain a Rental Registration Certificate and a Non-Owner-Occupied Rental License (if applicable).
- Permit Fees:
- Rental Registration Certificate: $70 per unit (annual renewal required)
- Non-Owner-Occupied STR License: $250 per year
- Required Documents:
- Proof of property ownership
- Floor plan with designated guest areas
- Zoning compliance approval
- Tax registration documentation
- Compliance with requirements outlined in the Cleveland Landlord Guide
Where to Apply:
- Online Permit Application Portal: Cleveland STR Permit Portal
Step 3: Register for Tax Collection & Payment
STR hosts must collect and remit applicable local and state lodging taxes.
- Tax Registration Required With:
- Cleveland Office of the Treasurer
- Ohio Department of Taxation
- Tax Rates:
- Ohio State Lodging Tax: 5%
- Cleveland Local Lodging Tax: 3%
- Total Lodging Tax Rate: 8%
- Filing and Payment Deadlines:
- Taxes must be reported and paid monthly.
- Payments are due by the 20th of each month for the previous month’s rentals.
Where to Register and Pay Taxes:
- Cleveland Office of the Treasurer:
- Website: Cleveland Property Tax Portal
- Phone: (216) 664-2580
- Email: taxoffice@clevelandohio.gov
- Ohio Department of Taxation:
- Website: Ohio Tax
- Phone: (888) 405-4039
Failure to collect, report, and remit taxes can result in fines and penalties. Hosts are encouraged to maintain accurate records and consult a tax professional if needed.
4. Regulatory Breakdown
Frequently Asked Questions provide detailed answers to the most common regulatory questions.
Example Questions:
- Do I need a permit to operate an STR in Cleveland?
- Yes, all STR operators must obtain a Rental Registration Certificate, and non-owner-occupied STRs require an additional license.
- What are the tax obligations for STR operators?
- STRs are subject to city and state lodging taxes.
- Are there zoning restrictions for STRs?
- Yes, STRs are limited in some residential zones.
Additional Resources:
