As the popularity of short-term rentals such as Airbnb continues to rise, many cities and towns are implementing regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of both hosts and guests.
Georgetown, TX
is no exception. Located just 30 miles north of Austin, Georgetown is a charming city known for its historic downtown, beautiful parks, and vibrant community. With its growing tourism industry, it's important to understand the regulations in place for short-term rentals in this Texas town.The Rise of Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals have become a popular option for travelers looking for a unique and affordable accommodation experience.With platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway, individuals can rent out their homes or spare rooms to guests for a short period of time. This has not only provided an alternative to traditional hotels but has also allowed homeowners to earn extra income. However, with the rise of short-term rentals, there have been concerns about safety, noise disturbances, and the impact on local communities. This has led many cities and towns to implement regulations to address these issues.
The City of Georgetown's Regulations
In 2017, the City of Georgetown passed an ordinance regulating short-term rentals within city limits. This ordinance requires all short-term rental properties to obtain a permit from the city before operating.The permit must be renewed annually and is subject to inspection by the city's Code Enforcement Department.
Regulations in Georgetown, TX
also require that the property owner or designated agent be available 24/7 to address any issues that may arise during a guest's stay. This ensures that guests have a point of contact in case of emergencies or other concerns. Additionally, the ordinance limits the number of guests allowed in a short-term rental property to two adults per bedroom plus two additional guests. This is to prevent overcrowding and potential safety hazards. The property must also have adequate parking spaces for guests, and any outdoor amenities such as pools or hot tubs must comply with city codes.Safety and Health Requirements
The City of Georgetown also has specific safety and health requirements for short-term rental properties.These include having working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. The property must also have a functioning heating and cooling system, as well as a working plumbing system. In addition, the property must be kept clean and free of pests. This not only ensures the comfort of guests but also prevents any potential health hazards. The city also requires that all short-term rental properties have a first aid kit available for guests.
Noise and Nuisance Regulations
Noise disturbances have been a common concern with short-term rentals, especially in residential areas.To address this issue, the City of Georgetown has implemented noise regulations for short-term rental properties. These regulations prohibit loud noises between the hours of 10 PM and 7 AM, and any noise that can be heard from outside the property is not allowed. In addition, short-term rental properties are not allowed to be used for events or parties without prior approval from the city. This is to prevent any disturbances to the surrounding community.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The City of Georgetown takes these regulations seriously and has penalties in place for non-compliance. If a short-term rental property is found to be operating without a permit or violating any of the regulations, the owner may face fines up to $500 per day.Continued non-compliance may result in revocation of the permit and the property being shut down.
