Redlands Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Redlands, California?

In Redlands, California, operating a short-term rental business, whether through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, involves navigating a set of specific regulations and requirements set forth by the city. To legally rent out a dwelling unit for periods of less than 30 days, hosts must obtain a permit from the city, a crucial step in ensuring compliance with local ordinances. This permit, which must be renewed annually, serves as a foundational requirement for operating a short-term rental property within Redlands.

The application process for a short-term rental permit in Redlands entails submitting a comprehensive set of documents and certifications to demonstrate that the rental unit meets all necessary standards and safety requirements outlined by the city. Additionally, hosts are subject to a 7% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on stays at their short-term rental properties. To comply with tax regulations, hosts must register for a TOT certificate and submit quarterly statements to fulfill their tax obligations and contribute to the city's revenue stream.

Redlands' municipal code establishes various regulations governing short-term rentals, including occupancy limits, parking requirements, and other standards aimed at preserving the residential character of neighborhoods. Hosts are also required to designate a 24/7 contact person to address any concerns or issues that may arise during a guest's stay, ensuring prompt resolution of any potential conflicts.

Initiating a short-term rental business in Redlands involves a structured process, starting with applying online for a permit through the city's EZ Online Permitting Portal. Hosts must submit the required application fee and documents, including a self-certification of the rental unit's interior, and schedule an exterior inspection of the property with a Code Enforcement Officer. Obtaining a Transient Occupancy Tax Registration Certificate from the city and renewing the permit annually are essential steps to maintain compliance with Redlands' regulations.

While Redlands demonstrates a commitment to enforcing its short-term rental regulations, some hosts continue to operate in the city despite the rules. Compared to cities with outright bans, Redlands appears to strike a balance between regulation and accommodation, positioning itself as relatively Airbnb-friendly and conducive to short-term rental activities.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Redlands

To start a short-term rental business in Redlands, California, the initial step is to register your business with the appropriate state agencies, as outlined in the regulations for starting a short-term rental business in California. Registering your business is not only a professional practice but also a legal requirement to ensure compliance with local codes. This registration process is essential for legitimizing your short-term rental business and safeguarding against potential legal or financial issues.

When establishing your short-term rental business, you have the option to choose from various business structures, including a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, and others. Each structure comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it is crucial to research and understand the implications of each option thoroughly. Opting for an LLC for your short-term rental business can provide a financial safety net by protecting your personal assets in the event of business-related liabilities or lawsuits.

Furthermore, creating an LLC offers flexibility in managing your short-term rental business and streamlines state reporting requirements. This business structure allows for a separation of personal and business assets, ensuring that your personal assets are shielded from business debts and liabilities. By choosing to register your short-term rental business as an LLC, you can benefit from enhanced protection and operational flexibility, making it a popular choice for many entrepreneurs in the short-term rental industry.

In summary, initiating a short-term rental business in Redlands involves registering your business with the state agencies, selecting an appropriate business structure, such as an LLC, and ensuring compliance with local regulations to establish a legitimate and successful venture in the vibrant short-term rental market.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Redlands

In Redlands, California, the short-term rental licensing requirement is a crucial aspect of operating a successful and compliant rental business. Hosts looking to rent out their property for periods of less than 30 days must obtain a permit from the city. This permit serves as a formal authorization to engage in short-term rental activities within the city limits.

The process of obtaining a short-term rental permit involves submitting an application to the relevant city authorities, paying any associated fees, and meeting specific criteria outlined in the municipal code. These criteria typically include safety standards, occupancy limits, parking requirements, and other regulations aimed at ensuring the well-being of guests and the community.

Once approved, the short-term rental permit is valid for a specified period, usually one year, after which it must be renewed to maintain compliance with Redlands' regulations. Renewing the permit involves updating any necessary information, paying renewal fees, and confirming continued adherence to the city's guidelines for short-term rentals.

By adhering to the short-term rental licensing requirement in Redlands, hosts can operate their rental properties legally and responsibly. This process not only ensures compliance with local regulations but also helps maintain the integrity of the community and fosters positive relationships between hosts, guests, and neighbors. Overall, obtaining and renewing a short-term rental permit in Redlands is a fundamental step in establishing a successful and sustainable short-term rental business in the city.

Required Documents for Redlands Short Term Rentals

To obtain a short-term rental permit in Redlands, California, hosts must submit a comprehensive application packet that includes a variety of required documents and certifications. While the exact list of documents may vary, the application process aims to verify that the rental unit meets all safety, occupancy, and quality standards set forth by the city's municipal code.

Some of the key documents typically required in the application packet include:

• Completed application form: This form provides the city with essential information about the host, the rental property, and the intended use as a short-term rental.
• Proof of ownership: Hosts must submit documentation, such as a deed or title, to demonstrate their ownership of the property being used as a short-term rental.
• Floor plan: A detailed floor plan of the rental unit, indicating the layout, room dimensions, and location of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment.
• Self-certification: A signed statement by the host certifying that the rental unit meets all applicable building, fire, and safety codes, as well as the city's specific requirements for short-term rentals.
• Proof of insurance: Evidence of liability insurance coverage for the short-term rental property, typically in the form of a certificate of insurance.
• Parking plan: A diagram showing the available parking spaces on the property and how they will be allocated for guests and residents.
• Waste management plan: Details on how waste and recycling will be managed at the short-term rental property, including the location of trash receptacles and the frequency of collection.
• Emergency contact information: The name and 24/7 contact details of the local contact person responsible for responding to any issues or complaints related to the short-term rental.

By submitting these required documents and certifications, hosts demonstrate their commitment to operating a safe, responsible, and compliant short-term rental business in Redlands. The city's thorough application process helps ensure that rental properties meet the necessary standards and that hosts are aware of their obligations as short-term rental operators.

Redlands Short Term Rental Taxes

In Redlands, California, short-term rental hosts are subject to the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT), which is set at a rate of 7% on the total rental amount charged to guests for stays in their properties. This tax is a key component of short-term rental operations in Redlands and is designed to generate revenue for the city while also ensuring that hosts contribute their fair share to local taxes.

To comply with TOT regulations, hosts are required to register for a TOT certificate with the city of Redlands. This registration process typically involves providing information about the rental property, the host's contact details, and other relevant information to establish tax compliance. Additionally, hosts are responsible for collecting the TOT from guests during their stays and remitting these taxes to the city on a regular basis.

Quarterly statements detailing the TOT collected must be submitted to the appropriate city department to report and reconcile the taxes owed. This process helps ensure transparency and accountability in tax collection and allows the city to track and monitor TOT revenue from short-term rentals effectively.

By enforcing the TOT on short-term rental stays, Redlands can generate revenue that supports essential services and infrastructure within the city. This tax also helps level the playing field between short-term rental hosts and traditional lodging establishments, ensuring that all providers of accommodations contribute equitably to the local tax base.

Understanding and complying with the TOT requirements in Redlands is essential for short-term rental hosts to operate legally and responsibly. By fulfilling their tax obligations, hosts can contribute to the community while enjoying the benefits of participating in the vibrant short-term rental market in Redlands, California.

Redlands wide Short Term Rental Rules

The Redlands municipal code establishes several city-wide rules and regulations for short-term rentals (STRs):

Occupancy Limits

The code sets specific occupancy limits for short-term rental properties based on the number of bedrooms. Hosts must adhere to these limits to ensure the safety and comfort of guests.

Parking Requirements

Short-term rental properties are subject to parking regulations, with a limit on the number of cars allowed to be parked at the property. Hosts must provide adequate parking for guests while minimizing disruption to the neighborhood.

24/7 Contact Person

Hosts are required to designate a local contact person available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to any issues or complaints related to the short-term rental. This ensures prompt resolution of problems that may arise during a guest's stay.

Residential Character Preservation

Short-term rentals must maintain the residential character of the neighborhood. Hosts are responsible for ensuring that guests do not create excessive noise, litter, or other disturbances that could negatively impact the surrounding area.

Enforcement and Penalties

The city has established an enforcement plan and penalties for violations of the short-term rental regulations. Hosts who fail to comply with the rules may face fines or other consequences.

These city-wide rules aim to balance the interests of hosts, guests, and residents by promoting responsible short-term rental practices while mitigating potential negative impacts on neighborhoods. Hosts must familiarize themselves with and adhere to these regulations to operate legally and maintain good relations with the community.

Does Redlands strictly enforce STR rules? Is Redlands Airbnb friendly?

Redlands requires a permit for any dwelling unit rented for less than 30 days, with penalties for operating without a license. The city also imposes a 7% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on STR stays, and hosts must register for a TOT certificate and submit quarterly statements.

While some Airbnb hosts continue to operate in Redlands despite the rules, the city has established enforcement mechanisms, including fines for violations. This suggests that Redlands is committed to regulating the short-term rental market, but may not be as strict as cities that prohibit STRs entirely.

Compared to other California cities like San Bernardino that are just beginning to implement STR regulations, Redlands appears to have a more established framework in place. This relative accommodation to short-term rentals, combined with the city's enforcement efforts, positions Redlands as a moderately Airbnb-friendly destination within the broader context of California's short-term rental landscape.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Redlands

• Apply online: Utilize the city's EZ Online Permitting Portal to initiate the application process for a short-term rental permit.
• Submit required documentation: Ensure all necessary paperwork and certifications are included to support your application and demonstrate compliance with regulations.
• Schedule inspections: Coordinate an exterior inspection of the property with a Code Enforcement Officer to verify adherence to city standards.
• Obtain TOT Registration Certificate: Secure a Transient Occupancy Tax Registration Certificate to fulfill tax obligations associated with short-term rentals.
• Renew annually: Remember to renew your permit on an annual basis and pay the requisite fees to maintain compliance with Redlands' regulations.

Who to contact in Redlands about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For inquiries regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Redlands, reach out to:

Land Use Services Code Enforcement
385 N. Arrowhead Ave.
San Bernardino, CA 92415
Phone: (909) 387-8311

What do Airbnb hosts in Redlands on Reddit and Bigger Pockets think about local regulations?

Based on the Reddit discussions, it seems that some Airbnb hosts in Redlands are critical of the short-term rental regulations and feel that Bigger Pockets is overly hyping the Airbnb market while downplaying the challenges of operating under local rules.

One Redditor commented that Bigger Pockets has become "gimmikey and commercialized" and it's hard to trust what they say, suggesting the site is more focused on selling than providing genuine advice to investors. Another said the site "died a death about 4 years ago" and the forums are no longer as helpful or community-oriented as they once were.

However, a few hosts still find value in the Bigger Pockets podcast for getting an overview of the real estate investing landscape, even if it doesn't go into the same depth as more targeted resources. One host credited the podcast for helping them rapidly expand their portfolio from 1 to 4 properties in just 4 months.

Overall, the Reddit discussions indicate that while some Airbnb hosts in Redlands are frustrated with the local regulations and feel Bigger Pockets has lost credibility, others still find ways to navigate the rules and build successful short-term rental businesses with the help of resources like the Bigger Pockets podcast. The consensus seems to be that the regulations add challenges but are not insurmountable for determined hosts.

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.