This post is about short-term rental regulation in Big Bear Lake and its surrounding areas.
How does Big Bear Area define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?
- A private home that houses temporary guests in the desert and mountain areas.
- Lodging options that are rented for periods of thirty days or less.
Please note that in this context, “Short-term Rental” and “Vacation Rental” are synonymous.
Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Info
Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Big Bear Area?
The short answer is yes. However, according to local ordinance, there is a restriction to the number of licenses that can be issued to any individual or entity. Specifically, one can hold no more than two licenses. This rule applies even if the properties are held in a trust or corporation; an individual cannot circumvent this limit by being a member of multiple LLCs. Therefore, while owning more than two vacation rental properties is technically possible, only two of them can be legally operated as vacation rentals under one entity or individual.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
Does the Big Bear & Surrounding market have any zoning restrictions for STRs?
Yes. Big Bear and its surrounding market have zoning restrictions for short-term (Airbnb) rentals (STRs). These restrictions apply to rentals in the Mountain and Desert Regions in compliance with Division 2 of the Land Use Zoning Districts and Allowed Land Uses. Additionally, STRs may be allowed in connection with a legal nonconforming residential structure located in a non-residential land use zoning district.
Source: San Bernardino County Land Use Info
In Big Bear Area can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity?
Yes, in Big Bear Area, investors can own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity. There are no specific restrictions that prohibit investors from operating their vacation rental properties as a business entity. However, it is important for investors to comply with all local regulations and licensing requirements for Airbnb rentals in the area.
Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Info
In Big Bear Area, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals?
Yes, in Big Bear Area, investors can register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals. As long as these properties meet the necessary requirements and regulations set forth by the local authorities, they can be registered and operated as vacation rentals.
Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Info
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What is Big Bear Area’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?
To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Big Bear Area, the following requirements must be fulfilled:
- The property must be located within the jurisdiction of Big Bear Lake (zip code 92315). Properties outside this zip code should register with San Bernardino County.
- Complete and submit a Vacation Rental Program Registration Application, including proof of property insurance with premises liability coverage.
- Provide proof of ownership, such as a recorded deed or final closing statement from escrow. If ownership is under a trust, LLC, etc., documentation of all involved parties must be included.
- Submit the required payment of $550 for the Vacation Rental Permit.
- Pass a home inspection, which will be scheduled once the application is fully processed.
- Owner and agent certification is required annually. Agents and owners, except those who hire a full-service management company and never rent the property on their own, must pass a 25-question exam based on the vacation rental ordinance.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Big Bear Area?
To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Big Bear Area, the associated cost is $550 for the Vacation Rental Permit per property.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
Does Big Bear Area have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?
Yes, there are occupancy limits for vacation rentals. The formula is a ratio of 2 adults per bedroom plus 2 additional adults, with a maximum occupancy limit of 1 person per 200 square feet, not exceeding 16 people. For example, a 3,500 square foot home with 5 bedrooms has a maximum occupancy of 16 people, with 12 adults and 4 children allowed. The occupancy limits are updated upon renewal of the registration.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
Does Big Bear Area require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?
In Big Bear Area, investors are required to pass a home inspection as part of obtaining an STR (short-term rental) license. Once the initial application is received by the City, an email will be sent to schedule the home inspection after the application is processed. If the property does not pass the first inspection, there will be a specified period to make necessary corrections. To learn more about the physical and structural requirements, check out this Big Bear Lake Vacation Rental Checklist.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
Does Big Bear Area have any responsible agent requirements?
Yes, in Big Bear Area, all agents (check-in, 24/7 response, and management company staff) and owners (except those who hire a full-service management company and never rent the property on their own) are required to be certified by the City on an annual basis. Certification involves taking a 25-question exam that must be passed with a 100% score. This certification ensures compliance with the regulations and requirements for vacation rentals in the area.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
Does Big Bear Area have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?
Yes, in Big Bear Area, specific insurance requirements are in place for vacation rentals. As of September 15, 2021, all applications for vacation rental licenses must include proof of property insurance. This insurance coverage must include premises liability coverage.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
What are the duration and renewal terms of a Big Bear Area Vacation Rental license?
The duration of a Big Bear Area Vacation Rental license is typically one year. After the initial registration, the license must be renewed annually to remain in compliance with local regulations.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake FAQs
In Big Bear Area, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Big Bear Area?
In Big Bear Area, hosting platforms like VRBO and HomeAway (Expedia Group) collect and remit the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on behalf of owners. However, Airbnb does not collect and remit the Big Bear Lake Tourism Business Improvement District (BBLTBID) tax. Owners using Airbnb must still remit the BBLTBID forms and payments directly to the City.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake Short-Term Rental Info
Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Big Bear Area Vacation Rentals?
City of Big Bear Lake: VRregistration@citybigbearlake.com & 909-866-5831 x 118
Are there any new laws and regulations that the city is requiring?
As of the time this information was written, Get Chalet did not find any new laws or regulations governing short-term (Airbnb) rentals in Big Bear Lake and surrounding areas.
