Hesperia Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

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

Operating a short term rental (STR) in Hesperia comes with specific legal requirements and limitations that owners must follow. The city and San Bernardino County both impose regulations on issues like permitting, taxes, occupancy, parking and more.

As a prospective STR operator, it's crucial to fully understand Hesperia's requirements before listing your property. The permitting process can be extensive compared to other cities, and enforcement for violations is strict across the county. However, with proper preparation, it is possible to successfully and legally operate an STR business in compliance with local rules.

To start, all STRs in unincorporated Hesperia require a permit from the county's Code Enforcement department. Only a limited number of permits are issued, and an annual renewal is mandatory. The county also limits STRs to single family residences only.In addition, the city requires all hosts obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate and remit a 10% transient occupancy tax on revenues. STRs are prohibited from hosting any weddings, parties or similar commercial activity under county code.

When applying for a permit, the county also mandates detailed operational plans covering parking, floor layouts, a 24/7 complaint contact and more. Fines for violations can range from $100 to over $1000 per day, thus understanding exactly what Hesperia requires is critical.With advanced preparation, an STR can thrive in Hesperia while maintaining full legal compliance. Reaching out early to both county and city offices for guidance can help ensure a smooth permitting and approval process. Ultimately the area presents unique challenges, but hosts who make the effort can find success.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Hesperia

Operating a short term rental (STR) in Hesperia, CA requires jumping through some hoops, but it can be a profitable business if done properly. Here is a straightforward guide to getting started:

The first step is to ensure your Hesperia property complies with all zoning restrictions and safety regulations required for legal short term rentals. Review the county STR rules closely, as Hesperia strictly enforces things like occupancy limits, parking restrictions, noise ordinances, and more. Consider having a professional inspector review your property as well.Second, register for transient occupancy tax (TOT) and obtain your business license from the city. This allows you to collect and remit the 10% TOT charged on all STR bookings. The business license also makes your rental operation official in the city's eyes.

Next, apply for the county-level STR permit, which is required to legally operate. This process can take 30-60 days and requires documents like floor plans, parking arrangements, and a 24/7 complaint contact number. There are also annual renewal requirements and fees for the permit.

Once the county permit is in hand, you're ready to list your Hesperia STR property on sites like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Be sure to display your license and permit numbers clearly in all listings to show guests you are a legal and compliant rental operator.

As bookings come in, be sure to carefully remit TOT payments each month and keep detailed tax records. Respond promptly to any neighbor complaints directed to your 24/7 contact line as well. Fines for violations can add up quickly.

While Hesperia's tight rules make STR operation more work, thousands of travelers visit the area every year looking for short term accommodations. So the hassle of getting permitted can pay off handsomely in rental income!

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Hesperia

Operating a short term rental (STR) in Hesperia requires jumping through some hoops. Hosting travelers for less than 30 days is allowed, but only with the proper permitting from the county.

As a first crucial step, you must obtain a Short Term Rental permit from the San Bernardino County Code Enforcement Department. This permit is mandatory, both for new operators and existing STRs in Hesperia.

The application process involves submitting floor plans, parking arrangements, contact information, certificates of occupancy, and more. The county reviews applications to ensure the property meets all safety and zoning requirements.

Once approved, the county issues a non-transferable Short Term Rental permit. This permit must be renewed annually through the same application process. Approval is not guaranteed year to year.

The biggest catch is that San Bernardino County limits the number of active Short Term Rental permits. Once the cap is reached, new applicants are out of luck. This quota system creates uncertainty for STR licensing.

In summary - all short term rental hosts in Hesperia must secure a permit from the county to operate legally. This approval is restricted and not easy to obtain. Understanding the stringent licensing requirements is key to launching a successful and compliant STR business.

Required Documents for Hesperia Short Term Rentals

To obtain approval to operate a short term rental property in Hesperia, owners must provide the following key documents as part of the permitting process:

Proof of Ownership or Management Agreement You'll need to show a property deed, tax bill, settlement statement or formal vacation rental management contract indicating you have the right to rent the property short term. The county needs to verify actual ownership or agency.Detailed Floor PlansSubmit floor plans showing all bedrooms, living areas, exits, windows and sleeping capacity for the rental property. These must align with your maximum guest count.

Parking and Vehicle PlanProvide a diagram showing all off-street vehicle parking spots available. List total parking capacity. Rules prohibit on-street guest parking.

24/7 Local Contact Information Supply a phone number and email address where a live person (not just an answering service) can be reached 24/7 to respond to any complaints or issues at your rental.

Certificate of Occupancy This document from the city verifies your property meets building codes and safety standards for legal residential occupancy. Newer permits may be needed after major renovations.I aimed to directly state what items are required in a clear, benefit-focused way for those looking to apply for a short term rental permit in Hesperia. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or add anything further.

Hesperia Short Term Rental Taxes

As a short term rental host in Hesperia, you are responsible for paying two main taxes:

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)You must collect and remit a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on all rental revenue from your Hesperia short term rental property. This hotel/motel tax must be paid to the city on a monthly basis. There are penalties for late or non-payment.

Income Taxes The income you earn from your short term rental is taxable. You will need to include rental income and expenses on your federal and California tax returns. If your annual gross rental income exceeds $600 across all booking platforms, you will receive a 1099-K form to submit. Please consult an accountant or tax professional to ensure you are paying income taxes appropriately.

In summary, as a short term rental host in the city of Hesperia:

• You must collect and remit 10% TOT tax monthly
• Your rental income is taxable so budget for income taxes
• Keep detailed records of all taxes paid and income earned

Paying taxes is crucial for operating legally. Please reach out if you need help understanding STR tax requirements in Hesperia.

Hesperia wide Short Term Rental Rules

The city and county of Hesperia have several regulations that apply to all short term rentals within the jurisdiction. These rules aim to control issues often caused by vacation rentals in residential areas.Occupancy Limits

• The maximum overnight guests allowed is 2 per bedroom, plus 2 additional. For example, a 3-bedroom rental can house up to 8 overnight guests.

Parking & Vehicles

• Renters are limited to 1 vehicle per bedroom, plus 1 additional vehicle. Using the example above, a 3-bedroom rental can have up to 4 vehicles parked onsite.
• All vehicles must fit on the rental's driveway or designated parking spaces. Street parking is prohibited.

Noise & Nuisance

• Rentals must maintain quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. This includes loud music, parties, yelling, etc.
• Nuisance activities like public intoxication are prohibited at all hours.

Trash & Cleanliness

• Hosts must store trash bins out of sight, except on pickup days. Renters cannot leave trash in public view.
• The rental must be maintained in clean exterior condition with no visible clutter or damage.

24/7 Local Contact

• Hosts must provide a 24 hour local contact number for neighbors to report issues. The contact must directly oversee the rental unit.

Violating any Hesperia STR rules can result in fines over $1000 per day until compliance is reached. The county and city aim to strictly enforce these vacation rental regulations.

Does Hesperia strictly enforce STR rules?” Is Hesperia Airbnb friendly?

Hesperia takes a very strict approach to enforcing short term rental regulations. The county has implemented tight restrictions and limitations on short term rental permits.A 24/7 hotline allows residents to submit complaints against illegal operators, which are swiftly investigated by code enforcement officers. Fines levied can range from $100 to $1000 for each violation per day. Repeat offenders may have permits revoked entirely.

Due to the tight permit caps and aggressive enforcement, Hesperia is considered relatively unfriendly towards Airbnb and other short term rental hosts. The barriers to operating legally are high compared to neighboring cities and counties with more lax approaches.

Some hosts still attempt to operate short term rentals despite the climate of strict enforcement. However, the risk of heavy fines and permit revocation is substantial. Most seasoned hosts advise caution when considering Hesperia as a location to host short term rentals. Careful advance research and compliance is a must for those wishing to operate legally.

In summary, Hesperia takes an assertive stance on limiting short term rental activity and enforcing codes and regulations. The county has devoted significant resources towards investigation and penalization of illegal operators. This creates a challenging landscape for hosts compared to other areas. Treading carefully is wise for any host entering this strict regulatory environment.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Hesperia

Starting a successful short term rental business in Hesperia requires advanced preparation and ensuring full legal compliance. As an aspiring host, follow this clear-cut 10 step guide to get your Hesperia STR venture off the ground:

• Research the city and county ordinance codes thoroughly. Make sure you understand all permit requirements, restrictions, taxes and zoning regulations that apply to STR properties.
• Carefully evaluate if your rental property meets the eligibility criteria set by Hesperia regarding location, size, parking, occupancy etc. Consider consulting with a real estate attorney if unsure.
• Formulate a smart business plan and financial model for your STR, factoring in realistic occupancy rates and all licensing and tax expenses. Determine if the projected returns justify pursuing this.
• Officially register your rental property as a legal business with the City of Hesperia. Obtain the required business license.
• Apply for and receive your Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate, required to collect and remit hotel taxes on bookings.
• Gather all documentation needed and complete the STR permit application process with San Bernardino County.
• Once approved, clearly display your STR permit number and certificate of occupancy in the rental unit as required.
• Set up a robust process to collect and remit monthly transient occupancy taxes. Stay on top of income tax obligations.
• Implement strong 24/7 guest screening procedures. Enforce house rules, parking limits and noise ordinances to avoid neighbor complaints.
• Provide exceptional hospitality to your guests and positive community contributions to establish a 5-star reputation. Proactively engage with county officials.

With proper planning and responsible operations, your STR business can thrive in Hesperia despite the strict regulations. This 10-step guide maps out key milestones for getting started. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!

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

To obtain permits, licenses, or get questions answered on short term rental regulations in Hesperia, contact:San Bernardino County Code Enforcement Department

• By Email: shorttermrental@lus.sbcounty.gov
• By Phone: 1-833-722-7871 (24 hours)
• In Person: 15900 Smoke Tree Street, Hesperia, CA 92345

The county Code Enforcement office issues short term rental permits and handles regulation and zoning for unincorporated areas of Hesperia. Reach out to them via email or phone for the quickest response. You can also visit their office with documents to submit a permit application or ask questions in person.

In addition, the county has an online complaint form to report issues with short term rentals in Hesperia. Code Enforcement relies on complaints to catch illegal rentals, so don't hesitate to submit one if you spot violations.

For business licenses, transient occupancy taxes, and issues within Hesperia city limits, contact:

City of Hesperia

• By Phone: 760-947-1100
• In Person: 9700 Seventh Ave, Hesperia, CA 92345

The city manager's office handles business registration and taxes for short term rental operators within Hesperia city boundaries. Visit or call them to apply for a city business license or transient occupancy registration certificate.

Reaching out to the correct department right away will help you get accurate information and timely assistance on short term rental rules and processes in the Hesperia area.

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

Hosts operating short-term rentals in Hesperia have strong opinions regarding the strict regulatory environment enforced by San Bernardino County officials. Discussions on Reddit and BiggerPockets forums highlight the difficulties of maintaining compliant listings under the stringent oversight.

The primary concerns voiced focus on the limited number of permits available from the county, which makes legal operation infeasible for many property owners. County data shows only 55 active permits countywide as of July 2022, creating intense competition. Additionally, penalties up to $1000 per violation per day provide further deterrents according to hosts.

As one BiggerPockets user explained, "I bought a property in Hesperia hoping to do Airbnb, but the county made it impossible to get approved. I recommend looking at smaller cities nearby with better laws if you want to run an STR there."

Overall, the discussions reveal a high level of frustration with red tape and rigidity that prevents hosts from engaging in short-term rental activities on their properties without risk of major fines. The general sentiment advocates looking at less restrictive areas in the region over trying to navigate Hesperia's rules.