During their council meeting on Monday, June 26, Beavercreek City Council passed Ordinance 23-15, which establishes guidelines and regulations for popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. City Council’s primary goal in implementing this ordinance is to establish comprehensive legislation that governs short-term rentals within the city limits.
“While recognizing the benefits these rentals bring to the local economy, council also acknowledges the challenges they pose to the community,” said Mayor Bob Stone. “By enacting these regulations, Beavercreek aims to ensure that short-term rentals contribute positively to the local economy while safeguarding the interests of residents and preserving the character and integrity of the city.”
One of the key provisions of Ordinance 23-15 is the requirement for short-term rental owners to obtain a license by filling out an online application through the planning and development department’s online permit center. The licensing process aims to streamline the management and oversight of short-term rentals, ensuring compliance with the newly established guidelines. Existing rental unit owners have until September 24, 2023 to apply for a license.
Moreover, short-term rentals will be subject to the city's 3% hotel/motel tax, similar to other lodging options available within Beavercreek. This tax ensures that short-term rentals contribute to the local economy and support city services.
To obtain a license, short-term rental owners will need to provide specific information to the City of Beavercreek, including the rental's location, where the rental unit will be advertised, the number of bedrooms and occupants permitted, parking availability, and emergency contact information. These details are vital for effective management and communication, particularly in cases of emergencies.
Licenses granted under this ordinance will be valid for a period of two years and must be renewed to ensure continued compliance with the city’s regulations. Additionally, it is required for the license to be clearly and visibly displayed on the front window of the rental property. This will enable visitors and neighbors to identify licensed short-term rentals easily, enhancing transparency and accountability within the community.
The city encourages short-term rental owners who live within a homeowner’s association or on a property with covenants, conditions, or restrictions to check its rules and regulations prior to applying for a license to ensure short-term rentals are permitted.
"It is not the city's role to oversee homeowner associations,” Vice Mayor Joanna Garcia emphasized. “This ordinance is designed to respect and uphold existing HOAs and land use agreements. It ensures that the city does not interfere or undermine these agreements by granting licenses against their provisions."
Short-term rental owners will also assume responsibility for ensuring that the rental unit is occupied only by renters per unit and that the renters are at least 25-years-old. Furthermore, owners are required to provide important information to renters, including house rules, noise regulations, and emergency contact details. By setting these guidelines, the City of Beavercreek seeks to promote responsible and respectful behavior among renters, fostering a harmonious coexistence with permanent residents.
“With the passage of Ordinance 23-15, Beavercreek City Council has taken a proactive step in addressing the growing trend of short-term rentals,” said Pete Landrum, city manager. “By implementing comprehensive regulations and licensing requirements, the city remains an attractive destination for visitors while preserving the unique character and charm that make it a desirable place to live.”
The city takes violations of the regulations seriously and has implemented penalties for non-compliance. Violators may face fines, and in severe cases, their license may be suspended or revoked.