Council proposes bill for Airbnb to disclose rental data to the city

In a recent meeting held at Big Bear Lake City Hall, city officials delved into pressing issues surrounding vacation rentals and the collection of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) from platforms like Airbnb. The discussion highlighted a significant gap in data transparency that has left the city struggling to enforce compliance among rental properties.

A key point raised during the meeting was the current lack of information provided by Airbnb and similar platforms when they remit TOT to the city. Officials noted that these companies do not disclose the identities of the properties for which they are collecting taxes, making it difficult for the city to ensure that all vacation rentals are properly licensed and compliant with local regulations. “We cannot get that information unless we subpoena,” one official stated, emphasizing the challenges faced in tracking unlicensed rentals.

The proposed bill aims to address this issue by mandating that platforms include detailed data when remitting taxes. This would allow the city to identify properties that are not licensed or those that are failing to remit the appropriate taxes. The need for such transparency was echoed by community members during recent town halls, where residents expressed a desire to understand how many properties are being booked and the frequency of rentals.

While some council members supported the bill, believing it would enhance compliance and provide valuable data, there were dissenting opinions. One member expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the proposed measures, indicating a divide among officials regarding the best approach to tackle the issue.

As the city grapples with the complexities of vacation rental regulations, the outcome of this bill could have significant implications for both property owners and the local economy. The council's ongoing discussions reflect a broader concern about maintaining the integrity of Big Bear Lake as a desirable destination while ensuring that all rental operations adhere to local laws. The next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of vacation rentals in the area, as the city seeks to balance growth with community standards.