🏫Government 101

Understanding the role of different government offices in regulating short-term and vacation rentals is crucial for property managers, owners, and government affairs professionals. This guide aims to demystify how local government departments and elected officials impact the regulations that shape the short-term rental regulatory landscape.

Elected or Appointed Officials

Understanding the role of government in regulating short-term and vacation rentals is crucial for property managers, owners, and government affairs professionals. This guide aims to demystify the complex web of local government departments, elected officials, and regulations that shape the short-term rental landscape.

• Mayor: The mayor often plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and public opinion regarding rentals.

• City Manager: In addition to a mayor, some locations have an appointed City Manager. This role usually has more

• City/Town Council or County Board/Commission: Elected legislative bodies usually have the final say (sometimes the Mayor can exercise a veto over regulations or ordinances) in setting regulations for short-term rentals. They hold public hearings, solicit feedback, and ultimately pass (or vote down) ordinances and regulations that determine how short-term rentals operate in their jurisdiction.

Offices and government staff

Planning and Zoning

The Planning or Zoning Department usually oversees land use and determines where certain activities, such as short-term and vacation rentals, can occur. They often establish zones where rentals are permitted and set conditions for their operation.

Licensing and Registration

Many cities and counties require short-term rental operators to register their properties. This process often involves meeting specific criteria to obtain a license.

• City or Town Clerk: The clerk's office may be responsible for maintaining records related to short-term rentals, such as licensing or registration details.

• Building Department: ensures that properties meet safety and health codes. If the city requires short-term rentals to have a periodic inspection the building or code enforcement teams usually conduct them to ensure they are safe for guests.

Taxes and Revenue

• Tax Collector: Short-term rentals generate significant tax revenue for cities and counties through transient occupancy taxes and other fees. The Tax, Revenue, or Finance departments are usually responsible for collecting these taxes.

• Property Assessor

Safety and Nuisances

When complaints (noise, parking, trash, parties or other disruptions make up the vast majority of submitted complaints) are lodged against short-term and vacation rentals code enforcement officers are often tasked with responding. If the situation is deemed beyond their ability to respond they may escalate to the Police or Fire Department.

• Code Enforcement: They can issue verbal and written warnings, fines, or revoke licensees from property owners who aren't adhering to regulations.

• Fire Department: Depending on the jurisdiction, the fire department can play a crucial role in assessing the structure's fire safety and mitigation standards.

• Police Department: Involvement is typically limited to responding to emergencies, severe disturbances, or maintaining public order at rental properties.