Georgetown Introduces New Short-Term Rental Program
It’s an exciting time in Georgetown, Texas! The Georgetown City Council made a big decision this week, and it’s sure to affect many homeowners and visitors alike. On Tuesday, the council approved a new short-term rental (STR) program that will kick off starting November 1, 2024. If you’ve ever rented out your home or a room on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, then you’ll want to pay close attention.
What Does This Mean for STR Owners?
Under this new program, anyone operating a short-term rental in Georgetown will be required to register their property with the city. This means no more covert rentals! Operators will also need to provide their neighbors with a notice and collect Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) to remit to the city. This initiative aims to foster a better living environment for everyone in the community and enhance communication between STR owners, their guests, and neighbors.
Registering Your Short-Term Rental
Now, if you’re concerned about the cost, here’s some good news! There will be a one-time registration fee of $100, but don’t worry if you register between November 1 and January 1, 2025. During that window, the city will waive this fee, making it easier for folks to get on board without breaking the bank!
Why This Change?
City officials recognized that many STR operators weren’t adhering to the existing registration and tax payment requirements. As of now, there are about 285 active short-term rental listings in Georgetown, but only around 30 are currently paying the Hotel Occupancy Tax. By implementing this new system, the city hopes to generate roughly $250,000 in additional revenue, which can be put to good use in making Georgetown an even better place to live and visit.
Community Impact
For the neighbors living near STRs, this initiative is likely a welcome change. Many residents have expressed concerns about the impact these rentals have had on their neighborhoods—traffic, noise, and lack of accountability have been headaches for some. The city hopes this program will improve the quality of life for everyone by ensuring STRs operate more responsibly.
What Happens if You Don’t Comply?
Operating a short-term rental without the proper registration and permits won’t just go unnoticed; it’s a violation of the city’s Code of Ordinances. This means that if you’re planning to rent out your space without following these new guidelines, you could face penalties. It’s definitely in the best interest of STR owners to get their properties registered!
Final Thoughts
As Georgetown gears up for this new STR program, it’s essential for all property owners to stay informed and compliant. By doing so, not only do they avoid potential fines, but they contribute to a thriving community where residents and visitors can coexist harmoniously. It’s a win-win situation!
With the implementation date fast approaching, it’s time for those who haven’t yet registered to start planning. And remember, if you do register within that initial time frame, you can save on costs! So mark your calendars, talk to your neighbors, and get ready to join the effort in making Georgetown an even better place for everyone!
