Short-term Rental Regulation in Boone, NC

Boone, North Carolina, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a picturesque town known for its vibrant community, outdoor activities, and as the home of Appalachian State University. With its appeal to tourists, students, and outdoor enthusiasts, Boone has seen a rise in short-term rental properties, such as those listed on Airbnb.

However, with this growth, the town has also faced challenges in regulating these rentals to balance the interests of property owners, residents, and visitors. This blog post delves into the current regulations governing short-term rentals in Boone, NC, and what prospective Airbnb hosts need to know.

Understanding Short-term Rental Regulations in Boone, NC

Licensing and Registration

In Boone, property owners who wish to rent out their homes or parts of their homes on platforms like Airbnb must comply with specific licensing and registration requirements. The town mandates that all short-term rental properties be registered with the town’s Planning and Inspections Department. This registration process involves providing detailed information about the property, including its address, ownership details, and a contact number for emergencies.

The registration process aims to ensure that all short-term rentals meet safety standards and are properly managed. Property owners must renew their registration annually and update the town with any significant changes to their property or contact information.

Zoning Regulations

Zoning laws in Boone play a crucial role in regulating where short-term rentals can operate. The town is divided into different zoning districts, each with specific rules regarding land use. Short-term rentals are generally permitted in residential and mixed-use zoning districts, but there are restrictions based on the type and size of the property.

For instance, in some residential zones, short-term rentals are only allowed if the property owner also resides on the premises. This regulation helps maintain the residential character of neighborhoods and ensures that there is someone on-site to manage guests and address any issues that may arise.

Safety and Building Codes

Safety is a top priority for Boone’s local government when it comes to short-term rentals. Properties listed on Airbnb must adhere to local building codes and safety standards. This includes having functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Additionally, properties must have safe and accessible emergency exits.

The town conducts periodic inspections to ensure compliance with these safety regulations. Property owners are responsible for scheduling these inspections and making any necessary modifications to meet the required standards.

Occupancy Limits

To prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety and comfort of guests, Boone has established occupancy limits for short-term rentals. These limits are based on the number of bedrooms and the overall size of the property. Typically, there is a maximum number of guests allowed per bedroom, often capped at two guests per bedroom.

Occupancy limits help mitigate the impact of short-term rentals on local infrastructure and reduce the likelihood of disturbances in residential neighborhoods. Property owners must clearly communicate these limits to their guests and ensure compliance.

Noise and Nuisance Regulations

To maintain the peace and tranquility of Boone’s residential areas, the town has implemented strict noise and nuisance regulations for short-term rentals. Property owners are responsible for ensuring that their guests do not engage in disruptive behavior that could disturb neighbors. This includes limiting noise levels, especially during nighttime hours, and managing waste and parking appropriately.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and potential revocation of the short-term rental permit. Property owners are encouraged to provide guests with clear guidelines on acceptable behavior and to be responsive to any complaints from neighbors.

Taxation

Like many municipalities, Boone requires short-term rental property owners to collect and remit local occupancy taxes. These taxes are typically a percentage of the rental income and are used to fund local services and infrastructure. Property owners must register with the local tax authority and ensure timely payment of these taxes.

Platforms like Airbnb often assist hosts in collecting and remitting these taxes, but it is ultimately the property owner’s responsibility to ensure compliance with local tax laws. Failure to pay occupancy taxes can result in penalties and interest charges.

Resources for Property Owners

For those interested in operating a short-term rental in Boone, several resources are available to help navigate the regulatory landscape:

1. Boone Planning and Inspections Department: This department is the primary point of contact for registration and compliance. They provide detailed information on zoning laws, safety standards, and occupancy limits.
2. Town of Boone Website: The official website offers comprehensive guides and resources on short-term rental regulations, including application forms and contact information.
3. Local Realtors and Property Managers: Real estate professionals and property management companies can offer valuable insights and assistance in managing short-term rentals in compliance with local laws.
4. Airbnb Community: The Airbnb host community is a great resource for sharing experiences, tips, and best practices for managing short-term rentals within regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

Operating a short-term rental in Boone, NC, requires a thorough understanding of the town’s regulations and a commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, compliance, and neighborliness. By adhering to licensing requirements, zoning laws, safety codes, and tax obligations, property owners can contribute positively to the community while benefiting from the lucrative short-term rental market.