Lake Arrowhead, a picturesque mountain resort community in San Bernardino County, California, does indeed allow short-term rentals. However, property owners must navigate a complex set of regulations and requirements to operate legally. These include obtaining permits, adhering to strict occupancy limits, and following specific rules set by both the county and local associations. The process involves fees, inspections, and annual renewals, reflecting the community’s effort to balance tourism with residential quality of life.
What Are the Key Permit Requirements for Short-Term Rentals in Lake Arrowhead?
To operate a short-term rental in Lake Arrowhead, property owners must obtain a permit from San Bernardino County. The permit application process involves several key requirements:
- Application Fee: $1,135 total, broken down as follows:
- $600 for the application
- $285 for the permit fee
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$250 for surrounding property owner notification
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Annual Renewal: The permit must be renewed yearly at a cost of $885.
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Onsite Parking: Adequate parking for guests must be available on the property.
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24-Hour Contact: A contact number must be provided for emergencies and complaints.
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Inspections: County officials will inspect the property to verify:
- Square footage
- Occupancy limits
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Compliance with health and safety standards
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Trash Service: Continuous trash service is required, even during vacant periods.
What Are the Specific Rules for Vacation Rentals in Lake Arrowhead?
Short-term rental operators in Lake Arrowhead must adhere to several important rules:
- Occupancy Limit: Maximum of 20 persons per unit.
- Parking: Vehicles must park on the property, not on public streets.
- Safety Measures:
- Property must be free of hazardous materials
- Spas and hot tubs must be covered and locked when not in use
- Fire Restrictions: Outdoor fires are prohibited in the mountain region.
- Neighbor Notification: Adjacent property owners will be informed when a short-term rental permit is issued.
Are There Additional Requirements for Properties Within Specific Communities?
Yes, properties within certain communities, such as those managed by the Arrowhead Lake Association (ALA), have additional requirements:
- ALA Permit: A separate permit from ALA is necessary.
- Guest Registration: Each short-term rental client must be:
- Listed on the approved STR client guest list
- Present a rental agreement
- Show photo identification before accessing ALA properties
- Rule Compliance: Clients must agree to follow ALA rules or face potential fines.
- Lake Usage Restrictions:
- Prohibition on using boats or watercraft on the lake
- Ban on using the lake for business or commercial purposes
How Can Property Owners Ensure Compliance with Short-Term Rental Regulations?
To ensure compliance with short-term rental regulations in Lake Arrowhead, property owners should:
- Thoroughly review county and local association regulations
- Apply for and maintain all necessary permits
- Implement a system for guest screening and registration
- Establish clear house rules aligned with local regulations
- Maintain open communication with neighbors
- Regularly inspect and maintain the property
- Keep accurate records of rentals and guest information
- Stay informed about any changes in local ordinances
What Are the Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance?
Non-compliance with short-term rental regulations in Lake Arrowhead can result in:
- Fines and penalties
- Suspension or revocation of rental permits
- Legal action from the county or local associations
- Negative impact on community relations
- Potential loss of rental income
How Can Guests and Neighbors Report Issues with Short-Term Rentals?
For assistance or to file complaints regarding short-term rentals in Lake Arrowhead:
- San Bernardino County Code Enforcement:
- Email: [email protected]
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24/7 Complaint Line: 1-833-SBC-STR1 (1-833-722-7871)
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Arrowhead Lake Association (ALA):
- For properties within ALA jurisdiction, contact ALA directly for specific issues.
What Are the Benefits of Properly Regulated Short-Term Rentals in Lake Arrowhead?
Properly regulated short-term rentals in Lake Arrowhead offer several benefits:
- Economic Impact:
- Increased tourism revenue for local businesses
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Additional income for property owners
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Community Balance:
- Maintains residential character while allowing for tourism
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Provides clear guidelines for rental operations
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Safety and Quality:
- Regular inspections ensure properties meet safety standards
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Occupancy limits prevent overcrowding
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Conflict Resolution:
- Clear channels for addressing concerns and complaints
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24-hour contact requirements for quick issue resolution
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Environmental Protection:
- Regulations on trash service and outdoor fires help preserve the natural environment
How Does Lake Arrowhead’s Approach to Short-Term Rentals Compare to Other Tourist Destinations?
Lake Arrowhead’s approach to short-term rentals is relatively stringent compared to some other tourist destinations:
| Aspect | Lake Arrowhead | Other Common Approaches |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Requirement | Mandatory with annual renewal | Varies; some areas have no permit requirement |
| Fees | High initial and renewal fees | Often lower or non-existent fees |
| Occupancy Limits | Strict, with a maximum of 20 per unit | May be more lenient or based on property size |
| Inspections | Required | Not always mandatory |
| Community-Specific Rules | Additional rules for certain areas (e.g., ALA) | Less common to have area-specific regulations |
| Neighbor Notification | Required | Not always required |
This comprehensive approach reflects Lake Arrowhead’s effort to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of community character and residential quality of life.
References:
1. San Bernardino County Code Enforcement – Short-Term Rentals
2. YouTube – Discover The World Of Short Term Rentals In Lake Arrowhead California
3. San Bernardino County Sentinel – County Moving Toward Heftier Regulations On Short-Term Rentals