October 2024
Disclaimer. This page is intended solely to assist you in understanding the regulations you may need to comply with. The information provided here is not exhaustive and may not reflect the most current legal standards. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws. For further guidance, please contact your local tax authorities or consult with a qualified legal or tax professional.
In 2023, the City Council of Desert Hot Springs Council adopted Ordinance 794. It adds Chapters 3.20, 5.04, 5.44, 8.04, 8.12 Vacation Rentals, which bring limitations on the number of vacation rentals - amended Desert Hot Springs Municipal Code (DHSMC) to bring requirements on the STR industry.
Applicable taxes
misterb&b registered with the City of Desert Hot Springs to collect applicable local taxes directly from Guests on your behalf. For more information, check our FAQ about US sales/occupancy tax collection by misterb&b.
However, please note that you are still required to file the monthly tax statement, regardless of whether the unit was rented during that month. For more information, you can visit this official page about taxes in Desert Hot Springs.
STR conditions
- Vacation rentals cap. The City has capped the number of vacation rentals to 4% of the total number of dwelling parcels containing developed and completed dwelling units.
- Concentration restrictions. Property used for vacation rentals may not be located within 500 feet of another vacation rental property.
- Limit Occupancy. The occupancy of the vacation rental unit is limited to a specific number of occupants (find limits in Section 5.44.080(F) of the Municipal Code).
STR Permit
As a Host, you must obtain a permit to operate an STR in Desert Hot Springs.
- Online process. The application process can be completed online here. You must renew your permit annually.
- TOT Registration Certificate. You must obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate before applying for a vacation renal permit. Online application here.
- Business License. You must obtain a business license (pursuant to Chapter 5.04) before applying for a vacation rental permit. Online application here.
You must add the permit number to your misterb&b listing(s) (go to the “Local Requirements” page, via “Edit my listing”). In the absence of valid permit number, misterb&b may delete your listing.
Maintaining compliance
You must ensure that the STR complies with all applicable Federal, State and local laws, rules and regulations regarding fire, building and safety, health and safety, and all other relevant laws.
- Insurance. All operators of vacation rentals must maintain a general liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.
- Limit the number of vehicles. You, as a Host, shall limit the number of vehicles of occupants staying overnight in the dwelling to an amount not to exceed the number of designated parking spaces.
- Garbage disposal. You, as a Host, must install suitable garbage cans for the proper disposal of garbage, complying with all applicable sections of Chapter 8.04 relating to garbage disposal.
- Noise nuisance. You must make sure your vacation rentals comply with the noise regulations set forth in Chapter 8.12 of this Municipal Code. It includes installing a noise monitoring system installed, which will alert you of any loud noise exceeding 70 decibels.
Third-party rules
- Community rules. You must abide by other contracts or rules binding you, such as co-op rules, CC&Rs, HOA rules, or other rules established by tenant organizations.
- Lease contract. If you are a renter, you must get the written permission from your landlord to use the property as a STR.