Short Term Rental Rules Require Homeowners To Register Before Renting

BERKLEY, CA — Berkeleyans seeking to use part or all of their home to host short-term rentals – which can be for up to 13 days at a time or 90 days a year – should verify property qualification and register to ensure understanding of guidelines, fees, and fines, the city of Berkeley said last week.

"Registering gives property owners and even some tenants opportunities to supplement their incomes," the city said in a news release, adding that as part of the process, registered units pay a transient occupancy tax.

Those who register can also host paying guests anytime they are home, the city said.

Those looking to buy a property for use as a short-term rental can use the city's short-term rental registration site to check their assumptions about financing.

"Not all sellers or realtors accurately disclose whether a property qualifies for the types of rentals listed on sites like AirBnB or VRBO," the city said.

According to Berkeley officials, local rules governing short-term rentals strive to balance competing needs, allowing guests to pay for short-term stays in private residences while also limiting the conversion of much-needed housing into vacation rentals.

"Limiting housing supply intensifies demand, making a regional crisis worse for Berkeleyans," the city said.

To learn more or to see if a property qualifies, visit the city of Berkeley's short-term rental page.