Chino Hills Park Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Chino Hills

The city of Chino Hills, located in San Bernardino County, California, has specific regulations governing short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO. These rules are outlined in the city's municipal code and zoning ordinances.

In general, short-term rentals (defined as rentals for less than 30 days) are prohibited in all residential zones in Chino Hills. The city only allows short-term rentals in certain commercial zones, including the Freeway Commercial (C-F), General Commercial (C-G), and Commercial Recreation (C-R) zones.

To determine if a property is located in one of these allowed zones, owners can refer to the city's zoning map or contact the Community Development Department. Operating a short-term rental in a prohibited residential zone can result in code enforcement action and fines.

Short-term rentals must comply with certain requirements even in the commercial zones where they are permitted. These include obtaining a business license, paying transient occupancy taxes, and adhering to occupancy limits and parking restrictions.

Some Chino Hills residents and officials have raised concerns about the negative impacts of short-term rentals on neighborhoods, such as noise, parking issues, and a loss of community character. In response, the city has taken a relatively strict stance on enforcement and has considered additional regulations to further restrict short-term rentals.

Owners interested in starting a short-term rental business in Chino Hills should carefully review the city's zoning code and consult with the Community Development Department to ensure compliance. Failure to follow the rules can result in costly penalties and legal issues.

While some nearby cities like Diamond Bar and Walnut allow short-term rentals in residential areas with a permit, Chino Hills has opted to significantly limit where they can operate. This approach aims to balance the potential benefits of short-term rentals with the need to preserve the character and quality of life in residential neighborhoods.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Chino Hills

The city of Chino Hills has strict regulations prohibiting short-term rentals in most areas of the city. In October 2022, the city council approved an ordinance banning short-term rentals citywide, expanding on the previous prohibition that only applied to residential zones.

Prior to this ban, short-term rentals were only allowed in certain commercial zones, including the Freeway Commercial (C-F), General Commercial (C-G), and Commercial Recreation (C-R) zones. However, even in these permitted zones, operators were required to obtain a business license and comply with other city requirements.

To obtain a business license for a short-term rental in Chino Hills, operators needed to submit an application to the city's Community Development Department. The application required providing information about the rental property, the owner, and a local contact person available 24/7 to respond to any issues.

In addition to the business license, short-term rental operators in the permitted zones were required to pay transient occupancy taxes (TOT) to the city. The TOT rate in Chino Hills is 12%, and operators were responsible for collecting this tax from guests and remitting it to the city on a monthly basis.

However, with the recent citywide ban on short-term rentals, the licensing and tax requirements appear to be moot. The ordinance prohibits rentals of less than 30 days in all areas of Chino Hills, regardless of zoning.

The city's decision to fully prohibit short-term rentals came in response to concerns from residents and officials about the negative impacts of vacation rentals on neighborhoods. Issues like noise, parking problems, and a perceived loss of community character were cited as reasons for the ban.

Chino Hills' strict stance on short-term rentals sets it apart from neighboring cities like Diamond Bar and Walnut, which allow short-term rentals in residential areas with permits. The city has prioritized preserving the residential nature of its neighborhoods over the potential economic benefits of vacation rentals.

Property owners in Chino Hills should be aware that operating a short-term rental is now illegal citywide and could result in code enforcement action and significant fines. The city has shown a commitment to actively enforcing the ban and cracking down on unpermitted rentals.

While the licensing and tax requirements for short-term rentals no longer apply under the new ordinance, it's still important for property owners to understand the city's rules and restrictions. Renting a property for 30 days or more continues to be allowed, but anything less is now strictly prohibited in Chino Hills.

Required Documents for Chino Hills Short-Term Rentals

As of October 2022, the city of Chino Hills has completely banned short-term rentals citywide, making it illegal to operate a rental for less than 30 days in any area of the city. This means that there are no longer any required documents for short-term rentals in Chino Hills, as they are now prohibited.

Before the ban, when short-term rentals were allowed in certain commercial zones, operators were required to provide several documents to the city to obtain a business license and comply with other regulations. These documents included:

• A completed business license application form
• Proof of ownership of the rental property, such as a deed or property tax bill
• A copy of the operator's driver's license or government-issued ID
• A site plan or floor plan of the rental property showing all bedrooms and parking spaces
• Proof of insurance for the rental property, with a minimum liability coverage of $500,000
• The name and contact information of a local responsible party who could respond to any issues within 30 minutes
• A signed Good Neighbor Policy agreeing to abide by occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and other rules
• A Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) registration form and agreement to collect and remit the 12% TOT to the city

However, with the citywide ban now in effect, these document requirements are no longer applicable. Short-term rentals are not permitted in any zone or property type in Chino Hills, regardless of documentation or licensing.

Property owners in Chino Hills need to understand that operating a short-term rental is now a violation of city law and could result in significant penalties. The city has indicated that it will actively enforce the ban and respond to complaints about illegal rentals.

If a property owner is found to be operating a short-term rental in Chino Hills, they could face fines of up to $1,000 per day and potential legal action from the city. Repeat offenders may also be subject to escalating penalties and even criminal charges.

While the document requirements for short-term rentals are now irrelevant in Chino Hills, property owners should still be aware of the city's general business licensing and tax requirements for long-term rentals or other business activities. Consulting with the city's Community Development Department can provide guidance on these issues.

The bottom line is that short-term rentals are no longer allowed in Chino Hills under any circumstances, and no amount of documentation or licensing can change that fact. Property owners must find alternative uses for their properties that comply with the city's laws and regulations.

Chino Hills Short-Term Rental Taxes

As of October 2022, the city of Chino Hills has completely banned short-term rentals, which are rentals for less than 30 days, in all areas of the city. This means that there are no longer any taxes specifically associated with short-term rentals in Chino Hills, as they are now prohibited.

Prior to the ban, when short-term rentals were allowed in certain commercial zones, operators were required to collect and remit transient occupancy taxes (TOT) to the city. The TOT rate in Chino Hills was 12%, which was added to the cost of the rental and paid by the guest.

Short-term rental operators were responsible for registering with the city's finance department to obtain a TOT certificate and for filing monthly tax returns to report and pay the taxes collected. Failure to comply with the TOT requirements could result in penalties, interest, and legal action from the city.

However, with the citywide ban on short-term rentals now in effect, the TOT no longer applies to these types of rentals. Property owners are not allowed to rent their properties for less than 30 days, regardless of whether they collect and pay taxes.

It's important to note that while there are no longer any specific taxes for short-term rentals in Chino Hills, property owners may still be subject to other taxes and fees related to their rental activities. For example, rental income is generally subject to federal and state income taxes, and property owners may be required to pay property taxes and other local assessments.

Additionally, if a property owner chooses to rent their property for 30 days or more, which is still allowed in Chino Hills, they may be subject to the city's business license tax. This tax is based on the gross receipts of the rental activity and is separate from the now-defunct TOT.

Property owners should consult with a tax professional or the city's finance department to understand their specific tax obligations related to rental properties in Chino Hills. Failing to comply with applicable tax laws can result in significant penalties and legal consequences.

The elimination of the TOT for short-term rentals in Chino Hills directly results from the city's decision to completely ban these types of rentals. The city has prioritized preserving its neighborhoods' character and quality of life over the potential tax revenue from vacation rentals.

While some nearby cities continue to allow short-term rentals and collect TOT from operators, Chino Hills has taken a different approach. The city's leaders believe that the negative impacts of short-term rentals on the community outweigh any potential financial benefits.

California Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While the city of Chino Hills has banned short-term rentals entirely, the state of California has some statewide rules and regulations that apply to vacation rentals in areas where they are permitted. These rules are designed to promote safety, fairness, and consistency across the state.

One key statewide law is the California Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Law, which requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit TOT on their rental income. The state TOT rate is currently 12%, but cities and counties can impose additional local taxes on top of this amount.

Under the state TOT law, short-term rental operators must register with their local tax authority and obtain a TOT certificate. They must then collect the tax from their guests, file regular tax returns to report, and pay the taxes collected. Failure to comply with the TOT requirements can result in penalties, interest, and legal action.

Another important statewide law is the California Short-Term Rental Ordinance, which took effect in 2019. This law requires short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to collect and remit TOT on behalf of their hosts unless the host has already registered with the local tax authority and is collecting the tax themselves.

The Short-Term Rental Ordinance also requires platforms to disclose certain information about their listings to local governments, including the address, number of nights rented, and amount of revenue generated. This information can help cities and counties enforce their own short-term rental regulations and ensure compliance with tax laws.

In addition to these tax and reporting requirements, California has several other laws that may apply to short-term rentals. For example, the state's building and fire codes set standards for the safety and habitability of all residential properties, including those used as vacation rentals. Operators must ensure that their properties meet these standards, including having working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers.

California's landlord-tenant laws also apply to short-term rentals in certain situations. For example, if a guest stays in a rental for more than 30 days, they may be considered a tenant and be entitled to certain protections under state law, such as the right to a formal eviction process.

Short-term rental operators in California need to understand and comply with all applicable state and local laws. While cities like Chino Hills have chosen to ban short-term rentals entirely, other cities and counties have adopted their own regulations that may be more or less restrictive than the state rules.

Operators should research the specific requirements in their area and consult with local authorities and legal professionals to ensure compliance. Failing to follow the rules can result in significant fines, legal action, and even criminal charges in some cases.

While California has established some baseline requirements for short-term rentals, the regulatory landscape varies widely across different cities and counties. Operators must navigate a complex web of state and local laws to ensure their vacation rental businesses' legal and responsible operation.

Does Chino Hills Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions among short-term rental hosts on forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, it is clear that Chino Hills strictly enforces its ban on short-term rentals and is not friendly to Airbnb or other vacation rental platforms. The city has taken a hard-line stance against STRs and actively works to shut down any illegal rentals operating within its borders.

On Bigger Pockets, several hosts have shared stories of receiving cease and desist letters from the city after listing their properties on Airbnb or VRBO. One host mentioned that they were fined $5,000 for operating an STR in a residential zone, even though they claimed to be unaware of the city's ban.

Another host on Reddit warned others not to even attempt operating an STR in Chino Hills, stating that the city has "zero tolerance" for vacation rentals and will "come down hard" on anyone caught violating the ban. They shared an anecdote about a neighbor who was forced to pay a hefty fine and remove their listing after the city received a complaint.

Compared to some nearby cities like Diamond Bar and Walnut that allow STRs with a permit, Chino Hills is seen as one of the least Airbnb-friendly cities in the region. Bigger Pockets and Reddit hosts consistently advise others to avoid investing in or operating STRs in Chino Hills due to the city's strict enforcement policies.

Despite the ban, some hosts admit to operating "under the radar" in Chino Hills, often by listing their properties as longer-term rentals or using alternative platforms to avoid detection. However, the general consensus among experienced hosts is that the risks of getting caught and facing penalties are simply too high to justify operating an STR in the city.

Several hosts on Bigger Pockets have shared stories of being "turned in" by neighbors or other residents who are aware of the city's ban and are quick to report any suspected STRs. One host even claimed that the city has a "task force" dedicated to identifying and shutting down illegal vacation rentals.

The overwhelming sentiment among hosts on these forums is that Chino Hills is a city to avoid for anyone looking to operate a short-term rental business. The city's uncompromising stance against STRs and its aggressive enforcement tactics make it an inhospitable environment for Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms.

While some hosts may be tempted to skirt the rules and operate illegally, the consensus advice is that it's simply not worth the risk. With plenty of other cities in the region that are more welcoming to STRs, most hosts agree that it's best to invest elsewhere and steer clear of Chino Hills altogether.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Chino Hills

Unfortunately, as of October 2022, starting a short-term rental business in Chino Hills, California, is impossible. The city has completely banned all rentals of less than 30 days, making it illegal to operate a vacation rental or Airbnb-style property anywhere within the city limits.

The city's ban applies to all residential and commercial zones, and no exceptions or permits are available for short-term rentals. Property owners who attempt to operate an STR in Chino Hills face significant fines, legal action, and other penalties.

Given the city's strict enforcement policies and unwavering stance against short-term rentals, attempting to start an STR business in Chino Hills is not advisable. Doing so would directly violate the city's laws and could result in serious consequences for property owners.

Instead of trying to navigate the city's ban or operate illegally, prospective STR hosts should consider investing in nearby cities that are more welcoming to vacation rentals. Cities like Diamond Bar, Walnut, and Brea allow STRs with a permit and may offer more favorable conditions for hosts.

If you are a property owner in Chino Hills who is interested in renting out your property, your only legal option is to offer long-term rentals of 30 days or more. While this may not provide the same level of flexibility or income potential as a short-term rental, it is the only way to comply with the city's current laws.

To start a long-term rental business in Chino Hills, you would need to follow these general steps:

1. Ensure your property is zoned for long-term rentals and meets all local building and safety codes.
2. Obtain any necessary business licenses or permits from the city.
3. Determine a fair rental price based on market conditions and your expenses. Using a rental estimate calculator can help you out here.
4. Advertise your rental through local listings, real estate agents, or online platforms.
5. Screen potential tenants and execute a lease agreement that complies with state and local laws.
6. Collect rent, maintain the property, and address any arising tenant concerns or issues.
7. Comply with all applicable tax laws and reporting requirements for rental income.

While these steps provide a general overview of the process, consulting with local authorities, legal professionals, and experienced landlords is important to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and best practices.

Ultimately, while Chino Hills may not be a viable location for a short-term rental business, there are still opportunities for property owners to generate rental income through long-term leases. By understanding the city's laws and working within the legal framework, landlords can build successful and compliant rental businesses in Chino Hills.

Who to Contact in Chino Hills about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or concerns about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Chino Hills, California, there are several key city departments and officials you can contact for guidance and assistance.

The primary department to reach out to is the Chino Hills Community Development Department. This department is responsible for enforcing the city's zoning laws and short-term rental ban and issuing permits and licenses for other types of businesses. You can contact the Community Development Department at:

Chino Hills Community Development Department
14000 City Center Drive
Chino Hills, CA 91709
Phone: (909) 364-2740
Email: communitydev@chinohills.org

Within the Community Development Department, there are several divisions that handle specific aspects of short-term rental regulations and zoning:

The Planning Division is responsible for reviewing and approving land use applications, including zoning changes and conditional use permits. While short-term rentals are currently banned in all zones, the Planning Division can provide information on the city's zoning laws and any potential changes in the future. Contact the Planning Division at (909) 364-2740 or planning@chinohills.org.

The Code Enforcement Division is tasked with investigating complaints and enforcing the city's laws, including the short-term rental ban. If you suspect that a property is being used as an illegal short-term rental, you can file a complaint with the Code Enforcement Division at (909) 364-2757 or codeenforcement@chinohills.org.

The Business License Division handles the issuance and renewal of business licenses for all types of businesses in Chino Hills. While short-term rentals are not eligible for a business license, the division can provide information on the licensing requirements for long-term rentals and other businesses. Contact the Business License Division at (909) 364-2740 or businesslicense@chinohills.org.

Another important resource for questions about short-term rental regulations is the Chino Hills City Clerk's Office. The City Clerk maintains the city's municipal code, including the ordinances related to short-term rentals and zoning. You can contact the City Clerk's Office at:

Chino Hills City Clerk's Office
14000 City Center Drive
Chino Hills, CA 91709
Phone: (909) 364-2620
Email: cityclerk@chinohills.org

Finally, if you have concerns or complaints about a specific short-term rental property, you can contact the Chino Hills Police Department's non-emergency line at (909) 364-2000. The police department works closely with the Code Enforcement Division to investigate and address any illegal short-term rental activity in the city.

By contacting these departments and officials, you can get specific guidance on how Chino Hills' short-term rental regulations and zoning laws apply to your situation. While the city's ban on short-term rentals is strict and comprehensive, staff members can provide information on alternative options, such as long-term rentals, and help you navigate the city's business licensing and permitting processes.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Chino Hills on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

On forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, short-term rental hosts in Chino Hills have expressed frustration and disappointment with the city's strict ban on vacation rentals. Many hosts feel that the city's regulations are overly restrictive and prevent them from earning income from their properties. Here are a few notable examples:

In a Reddit thread a user posted about their experience trying to start an Airbnb in Chino Hills, only to discover that the city had completely banned short-term rentals. Several commenters commiserated with the original poster, with one stating that the city's ban is "ridiculous" and "unfair to property owners." Another host chimed in to suggest that the original poster look into nearby cities like Diamond Bar or Brea that are more welcoming to STRs.

On the Bigger Pockets forum, a host expressed their disappointment with the city's ban and asked for advice on whether to fight the regulations or invest elsewhere. Many respondents encouraged the host to look for opportunities in other cities, with one stating that "Chino Hills is a lost cause for STRs." Another host shared their experience of being fined by the city for operating an illegal STR and advised others to "stay far away" from Chino Hills.

In a Reddit thread a user asked for advice on navigating short-term rental regulations in various Southern California cities. When Chino Hills came up, several hosts chimed in to warn others about the city's strict ban. One host called the city's regulations "draconian" and "anti-business," while another stated that "Chino Hills is the worst place for STRs in the entire region."

In a Reddit thread titled "Chino Hills Airbnb Crackdown," a host shared their experience of being "harassed" by the city's code enforcement officers for operating a short-term rental. The host claimed that they were unaware of the city's ban and felt that the city was unfairly targeting them. Several commenters sympathized with the host's situation, with one calling the city's enforcement tactics "aggressive" and "over-the-top."

Overall, the sentiment among Airbnb hosts on Reddit and Bigger Pockets is one of frustration and disappointment with Chino Hills' short-term rental regulations. Many hosts feel that the city's complete ban on STRs is unjustified and harmful to property owners who want to earn extra income from their investments.

While some hosts have considered fighting the regulations or operating under the radar, the general consensus is that it's not worth the risk given the city's strict enforcement policies. Instead, most hosts advise others to look for investment opportunities in nearby cities that are more welcoming to short-term rentals.

The discussions on these forums highlight the challenges that STR hosts face in navigating complex and often restrictive local regulations. While some cities have embraced short-term rentals as a way to boost tourism and economic activity, others, like Chino Hills have taken a hard-line stance against them. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, hosts will need to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.