Airbnb/Short-Term Rental Regulation Joshua Tree, CA

How does Joshua Tree CA define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?

  • A temporary lodging unit, such as a residential dwelling or part of it, is used for transient occupancy purposes. 
  • Transient occupancy refers to a period of 30 days or less. 

Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Page

Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Joshua Tree CA? 

Yes! However, in Joshua Tree, CA, each legal dwelling unit requires its own permit for short-term (Airbnb) rentals. An individual is allowed a maximum of two permits, with the exception of existing property owners who hold more than two permits before a certain date. They are grandfathered in and allowed to renew their existing permits. Additionally, for parcels of land that are 2 acres or larger, a maximum of two short-term rental permits can be issued.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

Does Joshua Tree CA have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, Joshua Tree, California, has zoning restrictions for short-term (Airbnb) rentals (STRs). STRs are only allowed in the Mountain and Desert Regions of Joshua Tree. Other zoning designations may have restrictions that prohibit or regulate the operation of STRs.

Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Page

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

Yes, in Joshua Tree, CA, investors are allowed to own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity. The city permits Airbnb properties for stays of less than 30 days. However, it’s important to note that if a renter wishes to stay longer than 30 days, it would no longer be considered a short-term Airbnb property. In such cases, there may be potential fines or restrictions. 

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

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

In Joshua Tree, CA, investors can register accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals, provided they comply with local regulations. However, it’s also important to know that individual apartments located within a multifamily residential community are not eligible for an STR permit.

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Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

What is Joshua Tree CA’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Joshua Tree, CA, the following requirements apply:

  • Submit an application form to the responsible department, including property and contact information.
  • Provide notification to surrounding property owners and allow a 20-day comment period.
  • Receive approval notification and comply with the appeal process if needed.
  • Renew the permit annually, meeting operation conditions and paying renewal fees.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Joshua Tree CA?

The costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Joshua Tree, CA, are as follows:

Initial Application: $1,370

  • Application Fee: $600
  • Permit Fee: $285
  • Surrounding Property Owner Notification Fee: $485

Renewal Application: $885

  • Application Fee: $600
  • Permit Fee: $285

It’s important to note that there is a one-time credit of $150 available for the installation of an outdoor noise monitoring device, which requires verification during the application submission. Please keep in mind that these fees are subject to change.

Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Info

Does Joshua Tree CA have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

Yes, Joshua Tree, CA, has occupancy limits for vacation rentals. The occupancy limits are based on the number of bedrooms in the vacation rental unit, as determined by County Assessor data and County building records. As a general guideline, the occupancy limits for vacation rentals in Joshua Tree are as follows:

  • Studio/Single-bedroom STR: Up to four occupants
  • Two-bedroom STR: Up to six occupants
  • Three-bedroom STR: Up to eight occupants
  • Four-bedroom STR: Up to ten occupants
  • Five-bedroom STR: Up to twelve occupants

These limits ensure compliance with local regulations and help maintain safe and comfortable accommodations for guests. It’s important to note that these occupancy limits are subject to change, and it is recommended to verify the specific limits with the responsible department or the San Bernardino County Planning Department for the most up-to-date information regarding vacation rental occupancy limits in Joshua Tree, CA.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

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

Yes, inspections are required to ensure that the property is in compliance with relevant Zoning, Building, Health and Safety, and Fire Codes.

Compliance with Uniform Codes and Other Laws. At the time of issuance of an STR permit and after that, the STR owner shall be responsible for compliance with the California Fire Code, California Building Code, the National Fire Protection Association Standards or regulations, and any other applicable uniform codes, as adopted by San Bernardino County, and other applicable laws and codes.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

Does Joshua Tree CA have any responsible agent requirements?

Yes! In Joshua Tree, CA, owners or agents of Airbnb rentals (STRs) have certain responsibilities. They must be available and responsive 24/7 to address complaints or violations within 30 minutes by phone and within one hour in person. Valid complaints require immediate corrective action, which may include eviction if necessary. They must also report immediate threats to public health and safety to the appropriate authorities. Maintaining records of complaints, responses, and resolutions is essential, and they are responsible for ensuring renters and occupants abide by noise and parking standards while preventing nuisances. Compliance with the specific regulations provided by the responsible department or the San Bernardino County Planning Department is necessary to fulfill these responsibilities effectively.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

Does Joshua Tree CA have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

While specific insurance requirements for vacation rentals in Joshua Tree, California, may not be explicitly outlined, it is important for vacation rental property owners to ensure that their property is in compliance with both local and federal insurance regulations. This means that the property should have adequate insurance coverage to address potential liabilities associated with renting out the property. It is advisable to consult with local authorities or seek guidance from legal and insurance professionals familiar with vacation rental regulations in the area to ensure that your vacation rental property is up to date with all applicable insurance requirements.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Joshua Tree CA Vacation Rental license?

The duration of a Joshua Tree, CA Vacation Rental license is one year, so it must be renewed annually. Renewal requires meeting operational standards, passing an inspection, and paying the renewal and permit fees. Failure to renew within 45 days of expiration results in permit expiration, requiring a new application and fees.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

In Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree CA?

In Joshua Tree, CA, hosts or platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are responsible for remitting taxes. The owner, or if applicable, the hosting platform, is required to collect and remit the Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax to the Tax Collector. Failure to pay the tax may result in the Tax Collector pursuing remedies, including collecting the tax from the owner or hosting platform, as authorized by the County Code or other applicable law. The use of a hosting platform does not relieve the owner from liability for violations of this requirement.

Source: Chapter 84.28: Short-Term Residential Rentals

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Joshua Tree CA Vacation Rentals?

San Bernardino County Code Enforcement: shorttermrental@lus.sbcounty.gov & (909) 884-4056

Source: San Bernardino County Short-Term Rental Info

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

Chalet did not find any news or updated laws and regulations relating to Joshua Tree CA’s short-term (Airbnb) vacation rental industry. 

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