Shreveport Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Shreveport

Shreveport implemented new regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) like Airbnb and VRBO effective August 2, 2021. Hosts must obtain a permit, follow zoning restrictions, and collect applicable taxes. Existing STRs had to apply for a permit by February 1, 2022.

To start an STR business in Shreveport, hosts need to:

• Check if the property is eligible based on zoning and 500 ft spacing between Type B STRs
• Obtain a state sales tax certificate and local occupational license
• Get STR property insurance with at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage
• Apply for a Shreveport STR permit through the Rentalscape platform
• Ensure the rental meets all safety and operational requirements

STRs are only allowed in the following residential structure types in Shreveport:

• Single-family detached homes
• Townhomes
• Condos
• Duplexes
• Accessory dwelling units

The ordinance prohibits STRs in mobile homes, RVs, and multi-family apartments with 3+ units. Eligible properties must also meet off-street parking requirements of 1 space per bedroom rented.

The purpose of Shreveport's STR regulations is to allow residents to host short-term guests while preserving neighborhood character and minimizing negative impacts. The rules aim to strike a balance between supporting the economic benefits of home-sharing and protecting quality of life.

Key provisions include:

• Limiting STRs to certain residential zones
• Capping the number of whole-home STRs in an area through spacing requirements
• Requiring permits, fees, and tax collection
• Mandating safety features and occupancy limits
• Prohibiting nuisances and commercial events
• Establishing a complaint and enforcement process

By legalizing STRs within a regulatory framework, Shreveport seeks to bring the industry out of the shadows and gain more oversight. However, some argue the rules are too restrictive and burdensome on hosts. As the city adapts to the growing STR market, the ordinance may evolve over time based on community feedback and real-world outcomes.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Shreveport

Shreveport requires all STRs to have a permit, either 'Type A' for renting part of a dwelling or 'Type B' for renting an entire dwelling. Permits expire after 2 years and have renewal fees. Hosts must also get an occupational license.

To qualify for a Type A permit, the STR must be the host's primary residence, proven by a homestead exemption. For a Type B permit, the STR does not have to be owner-occupied but is subject to a 500 ft spacing rule from other Type Bs.

Permit fees are $150 for Type A and $300 for Type B, plus a $50 technology fee. Renewals cost the same and are required every 2 years. Fines for operating without a permit start at $500 per day.The permitting process involves:

• Creating an account on the Rentalscape system
• Entering property details and uploading required documents
• Paying application fees by credit card
• Passing a Life Safety inspection
• Receiving permit number to post on all listings

Permits are not transferable to new owners or properties. Hosts must inform the city of any changes in ownership, primary residence, or operations within 30 days. Permits can be revoked for repeated violations of the STR ordinance or other laws.

The occupational license is a separate business permit required for all companies operating in Shreveport, including STRs. It involves an application and annual fee based on gross receipts. Hosts need an occupational license before applying for the STR permit.

Required Documents for Shreveport Short Term Rentals

To apply for an STR permit in Shreveport, hosts need to submit:

• Occupational license
• Liability insurance certificate ($1M minimum)
• Proof of property ownership or owner authorization
• Site plan showing parking
• Notice letter sent to neighbors within 500 ft
• Permit application fee ($150 for Type A, $300 for Type B)

The notice letter must be sent at least 10 days before applying and include details about the STR plans, 24/7 contact info, and how to file complaints. Proof of mailing is required with the permit application.Other documents that may be requested include:

• Driver's license or government ID
• Property tax bill
• Homestead exemption form
• HOA approval letter
• Fire marshal inspection report
• Affidavit of life safety compliance

The city may also require an inspection of the STR before issuing a permit to verify it meets all building, zoning, and fire codes. Hosts are responsible for scheduling and passing all necessary inspections.

Failure to provide required documentation can result in permit denial or revocation. Hosts must keep all information up to date and provide records to the city upon request. Falsifying any application details is grounds for permit denial and fines.

Shreveport Short Term Rental Taxes

STRs in Shreveport must collect sales and occupancy taxes from guests and remit them to authorities. Airbnb collects some taxes on behalf of hosts in Louisiana. However, hosts are still responsible for registering with tax agencies and filing periodic returns.

Taxes collected by Airbnb in Shreveport include:

• Louisiana Sales Tax: 4.45%
• Shreveport Sales Tax: 5%
• Caddo Parish School Board Sales Tax: 1.5%
• Caddo Parish Sales Tax: 1.5%

Hosts must collect and remit any taxes not collected by platforms. Failure to comply can result in fines and penalties.

Other taxes STR operators may need to pay include:

• Federal income tax on rental income
• State income tax on rental income
• Local property taxes
• Self-employment taxes if STR is the host's business

Consulting a tax professional is recommended to ensure proper compliance.

To register for state sales tax collection, hosts need to:

• Obtain a Louisiana Tax ID Number from the Department of Revenue
• Create a GeauxBiz account to file returns and payments electronically
• Collect and remit taxes monthly, with returns due by the 20th

For local taxes, hosts must register with the Shreveport Sales & Use Tax Commission and Caddo-Shreveport Sales & Use Tax Commission. Returns are filed monthly along with payments.

STR income is also subject to federal and state income taxes. Hosts should track all rental revenue and expenses for tax purposes. Many STR expenses like cleaning fees, insurance, and supplies may be deductible.

If annual gross STR income exceeds $20,000, hosts must file a 1099-K form with the IRS. Platforms like Airbnb will send this form to hosts who meet the threshold.

Proper tax compliance is critical for STR businesses to avoid audits and legal issues. Hosts should maintain detailed records and stay current on all filing and payment deadlines.

Shreveport-wide Short Term Rental Rules

Shreveport's STR ordinance has several citywide rules that hosts must follow:

• Only allowed in certain residential and commercial zoning districts
• 500 ft minimum spacing between Type B whole-home STRs
• Safety requirements like smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and posted emergency info
• Maximum occupancy limits based on number of bedrooms (2 per bedroom + 2)
• No nuisances, parties, events, or illegal activity allowed
• Permit number must be on all listings and advertisements
• One on-site parking space required per bedroom rented
• Signage identifying the unit as an STR
• Designate a local contact person available 24/7
• Keep a guest register with names and dates of stay

Violations are subject to fines starting at $500 per offense per day. Three or more violations can result in permit revocation. The city can also issue cease and desist orders for problem STRs.Other key provisions include:

• Quiet hours from 10pm to 7am
• 30-minute response time for complaints
• No exterior alterations that change residential appearance
• Trash pickup at least weekly
• Working WiFi access for guests
• Evacuation route map posted inside STR
• Compliance with all other city codes and ordinances

The rules aim to ensure STRs are safe, not disruptive to neighbors, and blend into residential areas. Hosts are responsible for their guests' behavior and any violations that occur at the property.

Some have raised concerns the regulations are overly strict and make operating an STR too expensive and complicated. Proponents argue they are necessary to prevent "party houses" and commercialization of neighborhoods.

As Shreveport monitors the effectiveness of the ordinance, changes may be made to address unintended consequences or loopholes. For now, hosts must carefully review and follow all requirements to stay in good standing.

Does Shreveport strictly enforce STR rules?

As of January 2024, an estimated 79% of Shreveport STRs remained unregistered over a year after the permit deadline, and the city did not have immediate plans for penalties. Compared to some cities, Shreveport seems more lax about enforcement currently. Some hosts likely operate despite the rules.

However, the city launched a new Rentalscape platform in August 2022 to help identify STRs and assist with host compliance. Increased monitoring and enforcement is possible in the future as STRs continue to proliferate. The Metropolitan Planning Commission handles STR complaints.

Shreveport's STR ordinance includes escalating penalties for non-compliance, including:

• Fines from $500-1000 per day
• Permit denial or revocation after 3+ violations
• Misdemeanor charges for repeated violations
• Property liens for unpaid fines

While enforcement has been limited so far, the city has the tools to crack down on illegal STRs if desired. Hosts are taking a risk by not following the rules. As the industry matures, Shreveport may step up STR oversight like other cities have.Some signs of increased enforcement could include:

• Hiring more STR inspection and compliance staff
• Conducting proactive audits of online listings
• Responding to more neighbor complaints
• Issuing fines and citations to non-compliant properties
• Pursuing legal action against egregious violators
• Publicly sharing STR enforcement data and outcomes

Cities with strict STR enforcement like New Orleans and Las Vegas have dedicated teams that monitor listings, conduct inspections, respond to issues, and issue violations. They prioritize complaints and properties with repeated offenses.

Enforcement tactics used in other cities include:

• Undercover sting operations to catch illegal rentals
• Subpoenas to get host data from platforms like Airbnb
• Liens and foreclosures on properties with unpaid fines
• Bans on problem hosts from operating STRs
• Required neighbor notification of STR permits
• Limits on number of STR permits issued

As Shreveport's STR market evolves, the city will likely evaluate the effectiveness of current regulations and enforcement. Increased pressure from residents or media attention on illegal rentals could spur more aggressive crackdowns.

For now, Shreveport STR hosts should err on the side of caution and comply with all rules to minimize legal risks. Partnering with experienced local STR managers can help navigate the changing regulatory landscape.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Shreveport

Here are the key steps to legally start an STR in Shreveport:

• Verify the property is in an eligible location and meets spacing requirements
• Obtain a state sales tax registration certificate
• Get a local occupational license from the city
• Secure STR liability insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000
• Send required neighbor notification letter at least 10 days before applying
• Apply for a Shreveport STR Type A or Type B permit through the Rentalscape system
• Prepare the rental to meet all ordinance safety and operational requirements
• Schedule and pass any required city inspections
• Include the permit number on all listings and advertisements
• Designate a local contact person available 24/7 to respond to any issues
• Begin hosting and collecting required taxes from guests
• Renew permit every 2 years and maintain compliance with all rules

Some additional tips for success:

• Optimize your listing with professional photos and detailed descriptions
• Provide top-notch amenities and guest experience to earn positive reviews
• Use dynamic pricing tools to maximize revenue during peak times
• Automate booking, check-in, and cleaning to streamline operations
• Vet guests carefully and set clear house rules to prevent problems
• Foster positive relationships with neighbors and address any concerns promptly
• Stay up to date on any changes to Shreveport STR regulations
• Consider hiring a reputable local STR management company for support

Starting an STR business requires upfront research, planning, and investment to ensure compliance and profitability. But with the right property, systems, and hospitality, hosts can tap into Shreveport's growing tourism market.

As one Shreveport Airbnb host shared on BiggerPockets, "It's been a learning curve navigating all the new city rules and taxes, but so far it's been worth it. My STR consistently outperforms long-term rental rates in my neighborhood."

Another host cautioned, "Make sure you really understand the ordinance and have all your ducks in a row before listing. The permit process is no joke, and I've heard of people getting fined for missing documents or violations."

While the regulations add complexity, they also help legitimize STRs as a business in Shreveport. With proper due diligence and management, hosts can build successful STR ventures that boost their income and contribute to the city's economy.

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

For questions about Shreveport's STR rules, permits, and zoning, contact:

Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission

• Phone: (318) 673-6480
• Email: mpc@shreveportla.gov
• Web: https://www.shreveportcaddompc.com/str

To file an STR complaint, go to:

• https://www.shreveportcaddompc.com/str-complaints
• Or call (318) 673-6480

The MPC staff reviews all STR applications and issues permits that meet the requirements. They also investigate complaints and violations. Decisions can be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Other relevant city contacts include:

Shreveport Permits & Inspections

• Phone: (318) 673-6100
• Email: permitsandinspections@shreveportla.gov
• Address: 505 Travis St #130, Shreveport, LA 71101
• Web: https://www.shreveportla.gov/423/Permits-Inspections

For questions about building permits, inspections, and code requirements.

Shreveport Sales & Use Tax Commission

• Phone: (318) 673-5500
• Email: salestax@shreveportla.gov
• Address: 3000 Dee St, Shreveport, LA 71105
• Web: https://www.shreveportla.gov/288/Sales-Use-Tax-Commission

For questions about registering for and remitting city sales taxes.

Caddo-Shreveport Sales & Use Tax Commission

• Phone: (318) 865-3312
• Email: info@caddo.org
• Address: 1000 Grimmett Dr, Shreveport, LA 71107
• Web: https://www.caddo.org/180/Sales-Use-Tax-Commission

For questions about registering for and remitting parish sales taxes.

Louisiana Department of Revenue

• Phone: (855) 307-3893
• Web: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/

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

There is limited discussion specifically about Shreveport STRs on these forums currently. One Bigger Pockets thread provides an overview of the regulations.Some key takeaways from hosts in other Louisiana cities on these sites:

• Complying with local STR ordinances can be complex and costly, but is important to avoid fines and maintain good standing
• Many STR operators, especially in New Orleans, have struggled with changing rules, high permit fees, and strict limitations over the years
• Enforcement of STR regulations varies widely by jurisdiction in Louisiana, with some, like New Orleans, ramping up efforts while others remain lax
• Researching applicable state and local rules, focusing on being a responsible host, and staying engaged with any new developments is critical for STR businesses

Some additional tips and experiences shared by Louisiana STR hosts:

• Screening guests carefully and having clear house rules helps prevent problems
• Using dynamic pricing tools and maintaining a high occupancy rate is key to STR success
• Automating processes like check-in and cleaning makes managing STRs easier
• Providing local recommendations and a welcoming space sets STRs apart from hotels

Hosts should review official city sources and contact the MPC directly for the most accurate, up-to-date information on Shreveport's evolving STR ordinance and enforcement. Consulting with local legal and tax professionals is also wise when starting an STR business.

In summary, Shreveport has joined a growing number of cities enacting STR regulations to manage the industry's growth and impacts. While the rules create new requirements for hosts, the permit process provides a path to legally operate STRs in residential areas if eligibility criteria are met. How Shreveport's STR ordinance will continue to develop and be enforced in the coming years remains to be seen as the city navigates balancing neighborhood concerns with the rights of property owners in an expanding home-sharing economy.

The key for Shreveport STR hosts is to thoroughly understand and comply with all regulations, be respectful of neighbors and the community, and adapt as needed to any rule changes. By operating responsibly and playing by the city's STR rulebook, hosts can build viable short-term rental businesses that contribute positively to Shreveport's tourism economy and avoid issues with local authorities. As one host put it, "It's a lot of work to do it right, but definitely doable if you have the hospitality mindset."