In October 2018, South Lake Tahoe voters narrowly passed a vacation home rental ban, effectively barring homeowners in residential neighborhoods from renting their homes for fewer than 30 days. The abrupt decision left some homeowners and visitors reeling, particularly since over 24 Million tourists visit Lake Tahoe annually and generate over $100 Million of revenue for South Lake Tahoe alone.
Without further ado, here’s what you need to know about the VHR Ban:
The ban doesn’t actually go into effect until 2021
Don’t worry your reservation for a few days of lakeside relaxation this summer is safe! Vacation home rentals will still be able to take bookings until January 1st, 2021, offering ample time to plan a few Tahoe getaways.
Properties in Nevada and outside South Lake’s city limits will not be affected
Stateline, the municipality directly bordering South Lake Tahoe will not be affected by the California based ban. The new law also only covers properties within South Lake Tahoe city limits. In fact, there has been a slight uptick in neighboring markets thanks to the ban!
Ski Leases and other seasonal leases are permitted
Tahoe lovers have already found a couple of clever loopholes to the seemingly iron-clad ban, with some visitors opting for time-share style ski and summer leases split among large groups of friends. As long as the leases exceed the thirty day threshold you can share the home as you see fit. Just be sure to respect local occupancy rules!
Certain areas in the city of South Lake Tahoe are not included in the ban
The “commercial core” of South Lake Tahoe is exempt from the ban. This narrow stretch lines the city’s main thoroughfare, however a few homeowners close enough to this area may just fall within the boundaries of the commercial core offering them exemption from the new law.
Multiple appeals have been filed against the ban
For some jilted homeowners, the fight is far from over. In the days following the ban, multiple appeals were filed questioning the legality and enforceability of the new law. Concerned community members have proposed a referendum, although the likelihood of this actually happening is uncertain.
Whatever the fate of the controversial ban, locals are confident South Lake Tahoe will continue to thrive by welcoming visitors to share their little piece of paradise!
