Big Bear Lake, CA
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When deciding whether to become an Airbnb Host, it is important for you to understand the laws in your city. As a platform and marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to give you some useful links that may help you better understand laws and regulations in Big Bear Lake. This list is not exhaustive, but it should give you a good start in understanding your local laws. If you have questions, contact the city directly.
Short-term rental regulations
The City Council passed the Short-Term Rental Ordinance, on August 16th, 2021. Hosts are required to display their vacation rental license number on their listing. Operating without a license can result in a $5,000 fine for a first time offense and will be permanently ineligible to operate a vacation-rental property in the city.
Registration process
Step 1: Submit a Vacation Rental Program Registration Application. Effective September 15, 2021, all applications must submit proof of property insurance and a copy of their certificate issued after passing the Owner and Agent Certification exam.
Additionally, if owners allow friends and family members to use the property without charging any fees (including cleaning fee), then a Friends and Family form should be submitted with the application or emailed to the address on the form.
Step 2: Submit payment ($550 for the Vacation Rental Permit). Click here to make a payment.
Vacation Rental Registration Application: Click on the "Community Services/Code" department, and select the payment item titled "Transient Private Home Rental Application". You will be asked to type the address of your rental property, and the $550 fee should auto-populate.
Step 3: Pass a Home Inspection. Once the City receives your initial application, you will be required to pass a home inspection. You will be contacted by an inspector to schedule your home inspection once your application is fully processed by staff. Please note: If you do not pass your first inspection, you will be given a set amount of time to complete any needed corrections. A second inspection can be made by contacting Sara Lopez at (909) 866-5831 ext. 116. Click here to download the Rental Inspection Form. Please be advised, the registration and inspection process can take 2-4 weeks to complete. You are NOT allowed to rent your home during this period.
Step 4: Add your number to your listing. Add your number to continue hosting short-term stays in Big Bear Lake
Other rules
It's also important to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable.
Our commitment to your community
We’re committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules impact the short-term rental community. We will continue to advocate for changes that will enable people to share their homes.