11/12/23 by Zack Saadioui
Are you considering hosting your property on Airbnb in Columbus, Ohio? It's important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations before diving into the short-term rental business. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Airbnb laws in Columbus, OH, so you can understand the requirements and ensure compliance.
In Columbus, any individual hosting short-term stays of fewer than 30 nights is required to obtain a short-term rental permit. To apply for the permit, you must visit the Department of Public Safety in person and complete a BCI background check. The application fee for the permit is $20, and the permit itself costs $75 if you're hosting in your primary residence or $150 if you're hosting in a non-primary residence, such as a vacation home or second home. The permit is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed annually.
As an Airbnb host, you won't need to provide a background check or proof of general liability insurance, as Airbnb covers those aspects on your behalf. However, you will need to provide the following documentation when registering for a short-term rental permit:
Once you have obtained your short-term rental permit, you will need to add your registration number to your Airbnb listing to complete the process.
There are a few types of listings that are exempt from registering as short-term rentals in Columbus. Hotels and motels do not need to register since they are required to have a valid hotel/motel license. Long-term stay listings, where guests stay for 30 nights or more, also do not require registration as a short-term rental.
In addition to the specific requirements for short-term rentals, hosts in Columbus must also adhere to the city's building and housing standards. These regulations ensure that the property meets minimum construction, design, maintenance, habitability, health, and safety standards. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with these regulations and ensure your property is in compliance.
As an Airbnb host, it's essential to understand and abide by any other contracts and rules that may apply to your property. This includes leases, cooperative rules, HOA rules, and any rules established by tenant organizations. It's recommended to review your lease or other contracts and reach out to your housing authority or community council for specific details regarding short-term rental regulations and the impact on your property.
At Airbnb, we are committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules and regulations impact the short-term rental community. Our goal is to ensure that hosts and guests have a positive experience while also respecting the community and complying with all applicable laws and regulations.
In conclusion, if you're considering hosting your property on Airbnb in Columbus, Ohio, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations surrounding short-term rentals. Obtain the necessary permits, adhere to building and housing standards, and understand any additional contractual obligations. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and legally compliant experience as an Airbnb host in Columbus, Ohio.
For more information on the specific requirements and application process for obtaining a short-term rental permit in Columbus, Ohio, please visit the city's official website or contact the Department of Public Safety.
Sources:
- https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/2573
- https://new.columbus.gov/Business-Development/Get-a-Permit/Get-a-Short-Term-Rental-Permit
- https://www.proper.insure/ohio-airbnb-laws/
- https://library.municode.com/oh/columbus/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT5BURELICO_CH598HOMOSHRMREOP_598.04SHRMREHOHOPLRE
- https://www.getchalet.com/rental-regulations/columbus-oh
- https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2022/05/12/ohio-cities-regulating-short-term-rentals-bill
- https://www.mashvisor.com/blog/airbnb-columbus-ohio/
- https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/530/topics/623837-any-areas-in-columbus-ohio-that-do-not-allow-airbnb