Cleveland, Ohio Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations Cleveland, Ohio?

Cleveland's short-term rental landscape is evolving, with regulations that balance property owners' interests with community concerns. As an Airbnb host or potential investor in Cleveland, understanding these rules is crucial for operating legally and successfully. Let's dive into the current regulatory framework governing short-term rentals in Cleveland, Ohio.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Cleveland, Ohio

If you're considering launching a short-term rental business in Cleveland, there are several key regulations and requirements you need to be aware of before listing your property.

• Registration Requirements
• Primary Residence Requirement
• Host Presence Requirement
• Occupancy Limitations
• Zoning Considerations
• Tax Obligations
• Insurance Requirements
• Local Contact Requirement
• Enforcement and Penalties

Real-World Impact

The regulatory landscape in Cleveland has created challenges for some operators. For example, in July 2024, a party at a short-term rental on Larchmere Boulevard spiraled out of control with approximately 200 teens and young adults, forcing nearby businesses to go into "lockdown." This incident prompted City Council President Blaine Griffin to note that similar problems have occurred throughout the city, including in Little Italy, Ohio City, and Tremont.

In response to such incidents, Cleveland lawmakers introduced legislation in May 2024 that would require annual licensing of short-term rentals at a cost of $150 per year and allow the city to revoke licenses if problems arise. The proposal would also limit the number of short-term rentals allowed in residential areas.

Future Regulatory Changes

It's worth noting that on May 10, 2022, an Ohio House committee passed House Bill 563, which would prohibit local governments from enacting laws that ban short-term rentals altogether or regulate the number, duration, or frequency of rental periods for these properties. If passed, this bill could significantly impact Cleveland's ability to regulate short-term rentals.

Remember that regulations can change, and it's essential to stay informed about any updates to Cleveland's short-term rental laws. The city council has been working on new legislation that could change the regulatory landscape, so keeping in touch with local real estate groups or checking the city's official website regularly is advisable.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Cleveland, Ohio

Operating a short-term rental in Cleveland requires careful adherence to the city's licensing requirements. These regulations ensure that all rental properties meet safety standards and maintain neighborhood integrity. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know to legally operate your Airbnb or VRBO in Cleveland.

Annual Registration Requirement

All short-term rental operators in Cleveland must register annually with the Department of Building & Housing. This is a mandatory requirement that applies to all non-owner-occupied residential properties, including those used for short-term rentals. The registration period runs through the calendar year, with the current deadline for rental registration fees extended to May 30, 2025, and Certificates Approving Rental Occupancy must be obtained by September 1, 2025.

Registration Fee Structure

The fee for registering your short-term rental property is $70 per unit per year. This non-refundable fee must be paid at the time of registration. It's important to note that payments received after the deadline are subject to late fees, which can significantly increase your costs.

Required Documentation

To complete your short-term rental registration in Cleveland, you'll need to submit the following documents:

1. Property Tax Statement - You must provide proof that your property taxes are paid in full or that you're on a payment plan with Cuyahoga County in good standing.
2. Lead Safe Certificate - For rental units built before 1978, you must obtain a Lead Safe Certificate issued by the City of Cleveland. This certification verifies that your property complies with Cleveland's lead safe ordinance.
3. Ohio Secretary of State Certificate - If your rental property is owned by an LLC, you must submit proof that your LLC is registered and in good standing with the Ohio Secretary of State.
4. Local Agent in Charge Designation - Property owners who do not reside in Cuyahoga County or contiguous counties (Summit, Lake, Portage, Medina, Lorain, or Geauga) must appoint a local agent-in-charge who lives in the county. Both the owner and agent must sign an affidavit acknowledging this relationship, and valid photo IDs for both parties must be included.
5. HVAC Certificate/Inspection - For properties with four or more rental units, you must have the HVAC system inspected annually by a licensed contractor and submit a certification form.
6. Utility Bills - For multi-unit buildings where the owner pays for utilities, you must submit current statements confirming the accounts are paid up to date.
7. Rental Unit Registration Form - If your property will be used as a short-term rental for more than 91 days per calendar year, you must complete this form and obtain a rental permit.
8. Floor Plan with Emergency Evacuation Details - You must provide a detailed floor plan that includes emergency evacuation information.
9. Proof of Liability Insurance - Recent legislation proposed in May 2024 would require short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance of at least $300,000.

Submission Process

All applications must be submitted online through the Citizens Access Portal on the City of Cleveland's website. The process involves creating an account, filling out the registration form, uploading the required documents, and paying the registration fee.

Even if you don't have all the required documents at the time of application, the city encourages you to complete the registration process anyway. You can use your custom receipt to prove you applied, and you'll receive your Certificate Approving Rental Occupancy once you submit all your documents.

Processing Time

While the city doesn't specify an exact processing time for short-term rental applications, it's important to note that due to high volume, approvals for Lead Safe Certification and Rental Registration are currently experiencing delays. It's advisable to begin the process well in advance of your intended rental start date.

Inspection Requirements

Your property must pass both interior and exterior inspections to ensure compliance with applicable building codes and safety standards. Any identified deficiencies must be corrected before approval.

Fines and Penalties

Operating a short-term rental without proper licensing in Cleveland can result in significant penalties:

1. First offense: $150 fine
2. Subsequent offenses: $500 fine per violation

Additionally, unlicensed properties are prohibited from being advertised or rented out on booking platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The city can also issue cease and desist orders for properties operating without proper registration.

Renewal Process

The registration must be renewed annually. The renewal process is similar to the initial registration, requiring payment of the $70 fee per unit and verification that all requirements continue to be met.

Additional Compliance Requirements

Beyond registration, short-term rental operators in Cleveland must ensure their properties remain:

1. Violation Free - Your property cannot have open code violations to receive a certificate approving rental occupancy.
2. Tax Compliant - You must collect and remit the 3% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) to the City of Cleveland, as well as the 5.5% Cuyahoga County bed tax (which Airbnb typically collects and remits on behalf of hosts).
3. Primary Residence Compliant - Remember that Cleveland requires the rental property to be your primary residence, where you live for more than 51% of the calendar year, and you must be present during guest stays.
4. Occupancy Limit Compliant - Guest stays are limited to no more than seven consecutive nights.

For questions or concerns regarding property registration, you can contact the Department of Housing, Records Administration at (216) 664-2825 or email the team at Bhrental@clevelandohio.gov.

Staying in compliance with Cleveland's short-term rental licensing requirements not only helps you avoid penalties but also ensures you're operating a safe, legal rental business that contributes positively to the community.

Required Documents for Cleveland, Ohio Short-Term Rentals

Navigating the documentation requirements for short-term rentals in Cleveland can be complex. To ensure your rental operation remains compliant with local regulations, you'll need to gather and submit several essential documents. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of each required document, its purpose, and how to obtain it.

Rental Unit Registration Form

This form is mandatory if your property will be used as a short-term rental for more than 91 days per calendar year. It serves as your official application for a rental permit and helps the city track rental properties. You can obtain this form directly from the Department of Building & Housing through their online portal or in person at their office.

Property Tax Statement

Purpose: This document proves that your property taxes are current or that you're on an approved payment plan with Cuyahoga County. The city won't issue a rental certificate if you have outstanding property tax obligations.

How to obtain: You can get your property tax statement through the Cuyahoga County My Place portal. If you need to establish a payment plan, contact Cuyahoga County Taxpayer Services at 216-443-7400 (select Option 1) or visit the Cuyahoga County Treasurer's Office in person.

Lead Safe Certificate

Purpose: For rental units built before 1978, this certificate verifies that your property complies with Cleveland's lead safe ordinance, protecting tenants from lead hazards. The certification is valid for either 2 or 20 years, depending on your property's condition.

How to obtain: Submit a Lead Safe Certificate Application to the City of Cleveland. This typically involves having your property inspected by a certified lead assessor who will verify that the property is free from lead hazards or has been properly remediated.

Ohio Secretary of State Certificate

Purpose: If your rental property is owned by an LLC or other business entity, this document confirms that your business is properly registered and in good standing with the state of Ohio.

How to obtain: Apply for an Ohio Certificate of Good Standing through the Ohio Secretary of State's website. There's typically a small fee for this service, and the certificate can usually be obtained electronically.

Local Agent in Charge Designation

Purpose: Property owners who don't reside in Cuyahoga County or contiguous counties (Summit, Lake, Portage, Medina, Lorain, or Geauga) must designate a local agent who lives in the county. This person serves as your representative and can be held liable for violations if you can't be located.

How to obtain: The city provides an affidavit form that must be signed by both you and your designated local agent. Both parties must also provide copies of valid photo identification. The Local Agent in Charge overview document is available on the city's website.

HVAC Certificate/Inspection

Purpose: For properties with four or more rental units, this certification confirms that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are properly maintained and safe for occupants.

How to obtain: Hire a certified HVAC inspector to examine your system and complete the Certification of Rental Unit Heating System form provided by the city. This inspection must be conducted annually.

Utility Bills

Purpose: For multi-unit buildings where the owner pays for utilities, these statements prove that all utility accounts are current and in good standing.

How to obtain: Collect recent statements from your utility providers (water, electric, gas, etc.) showing that accounts are paid up to date.

Floor Plan with Emergency Evacuation Details

Purpose: This document helps ensure guest safety by clearly outlining evacuation routes and emergency procedures.

How to obtain: Create a detailed floor plan of your rental property that includes clearly marked emergency exits, fire extinguisher locations, and evacuation routes. This can be professionally drawn or created yourself as long as it's clear and accurate.

Proof of Liability Insurance

Purpose: While not explicitly required in current regulations, proposed legislation would require short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance of at least $300,000 to cover potential damages or injuries.

How to obtain: Contact your insurance provider to add short-term rental coverage to your homeowner's policy or purchase a specialized short-term rental insurance policy.

Valid Government-Issued ID

Purpose: This verifies your identity as the property owner and helps prevent fraudulent registrations.

How to obtain: Use your driver's license, passport, or other government-issued photo identification.

Proof of Ownership

Purpose: This document establishes your legal right to rent out the property.

How to obtain: Provide a copy of your property deed, recent property tax bill, or other legal document that clearly shows you as the property owner.

Residential Rental Property Disclosure Form

Purpose: This one-time disclosure is required by Ohio Revised Code 5323.02 and 5323.99, even if your rental property is registered with the City of Cleveland.

How to obtain: This form must be filed with the Cuyahoga County Fiscal Officer. There is no fee for this disclosure, and the form can be obtained from the Cuyahoga County Fiscal Office website.

All these documents must be submitted along with your annual registration fee of $70 per rental unit. While the processing time for standard applications is approximately 48 hours for online submissions, more complex situations or mail-in applications may take longer. It's advisable to begin gathering these documents well in advance of your intended rental start date to ensure a smooth registration process.

Remember that operating a short-term rental without proper documentation can result in significant penalties, including fines of $150 for first offenses and $500 for subsequent violations, as well as potential cease and desist orders that would prohibit you from listing your property on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

Cleveland, Ohio Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental in Cleveland involves navigating several tax obligations. Understanding these taxes is crucial for maintaining compliance and properly budgeting for your rental business. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the tax landscape for short-term rental operators in Cleveland.

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

The City of Cleveland imposes a 3% Transient Occupancy Tax on all short-term rental operators. This tax applies to accommodations rented for periods of less than 30 consecutive days. As the property owner, you're responsible for collecting this tax from your guests and remitting it directly to the City of Cleveland. Unlike some other taxes, this one is not automatically collected by platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, so you'll need to establish a system for collecting and remitting this tax yourself.

Cuyahoga County Bed Tax

In addition to the city tax, Cuyahoga County (where Cleveland is located) levies a separate 5.5% bed tax on short-term accommodations. This tax contributes to the county's revenue and helps fund local tourism initiatives and infrastructure. The good news for hosts is that Airbnb automatically collects and remits this tax on behalf of its hosts. However, if you're using other platforms like VRBO or direct bookings, you'll need to ensure this tax is properly collected and remitted to the county.

Ohio State Sales Tax

Short-term rental operators in Ohio are required to collect and remit the state sales tax, which currently stands at 5.75%. This tax applies to the rental amount charged to guests staying for less than 30 consecutive days. Unlike the county bed tax, platforms may not automatically collect and remit this tax, so you'll need to verify whether you're responsible for handling this obligation directly.

Local Sales Taxes

Depending on your specific location within Cleveland, additional local sales taxes may apply to your short-term rental. These rates can vary, so it's important to check with the local tax authority to determine the exact rate applicable to your property. These local taxes are in addition to the state sales tax and must be collected and remitted accordingly.

Income Tax Implications

Revenue generated from your short-term rental is considered taxable income at both the federal and state levels. You'll need to report this income on your annual tax returns. Ohio has a state income tax that ranges from 2.765% to 3.99% depending on your income bracket. Additionally, Cleveland imposes a municipal income tax of 2.5% on income earned within the city limits, including short-term rental income.

Tax Deductions and Write-offs for Cleveland Short-Term Rentals

While tax obligations can seem burdensome, short-term rental operators can take advantage of several deductions to reduce their taxable income:

1. Depreciation: You can depreciate the cost of your rental property (excluding land) over 27.5 years, providing a significant annual deduction. Furnishings, appliances, and other personal property used in the rental can be depreciated over shorter periods, typically 5-7 years.
2. Property Taxes: The property taxes you pay on your short-term rental are fully deductible as a business expense. This can be especially valuable in Cleveland, where property tax rates can be substantial.
3. Mortgage Interest: If you have a mortgage on your rental property, the interest portion of your payments is deductible as a business expense.
4. Cleaning and Supplies: The costs associated with cleaning between guest stays and restocking essential supplies are fully deductible. Given the frequent turnover in short-term rentals, these expenses can add up to a significant deduction.
5. Repairs and Maintenance: Costs for maintaining your property in good working condition, such as fixing plumbing issues, repairing appliances, or addressing wear and tear, are fully deductible in the year they're incurred.
6. Utilities: Expenses for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable TV provided for your guests are deductible business expenses.
7. Insurance Premiums: The cost of insurance coverage for your rental property, including liability and property insurance, is deductible.
8. Professional Services: Fees paid to property managers, accountants, attorneys, and other professionals related to your rental business are deductible.
9. Marketing and Advertising: Costs associated with listing your property on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, as well as other marketing expenses, are deductible.

The 14-Day Rule Consideration

It's worth noting the IRS's "14-day rule" when considering tax implications. If you rent your property for 14 days or less during the tax year, you don't have to report the rental income on your tax return. However, you also can't deduct any expenses related to the rental activity. For most serious short-term rental operators in Cleveland, this rule won't apply since they typically rent their properties for more than 14 days annually.

Mixed-Use Allocation

If you use your Cleveland property both personally and as a short-term rental, you'll need to allocate expenses proportionally. For example, if you use the property for 60 days personally and rent it for 120 days (for a total of 180 days of use), you can deduct 67% (120/180) of eligible expenses as rental deductions.

Understanding and properly managing these tax obligations and potential deductions is essential for running a profitable and compliant short-term rental business in Cleveland. Consider consulting with a tax professional familiar with short-term rental regulations to ensure you're maximizing your deductions while remaining in compliance with all applicable tax laws.

Does Cleveland Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Cleveland's approach to enforcing short-term rental regulations presents a mixed picture, with evidence suggesting that enforcement has been inconsistent but is gradually becoming more stringent. Based on real estate investor discussions and local experiences, we can draw some definitive conclusions about the regulatory landscape.

Cleveland has established clear regulations for short-term rentals, but historically, enforcement has been relatively lax. According to discussions on BiggerPockets, many hosts in Cleveland have operated short-term rentals for years without registering or obtaining the proper permits. As one investor candidly shared, "I know several hosts in Cleveland who have been running Airbnbs for years without registering or getting the proper permits. They've never had any issues with the city."

However, this landscape is changing. In 2022, Cleveland reportedly issued over $100,000 in fines to non-compliant Airbnb operators, signaling a shift toward stricter enforcement. The city now has dedicated staff who monitor short-term rental listings and issue violations to hosts operating illegally. This represents a significant change from the previously more relaxed approach.

Despite these regulations, a substantial number of hosts do operate in Cleveland without full compliance. A review of BiggerPockets forums and Reddit discussions reveals that many hosts choose to operate under the radar. One Reddit user discussing Cleveland's short-term rental scene noted, "Just because some hosts get away with it doesn't mean the city won't crack down eventually. It's a risk to operate without following the rules."

The most common non-compliance issues include:

1. Failing to register with the Department of Building & Housing
2. Operating properties that aren't the owner's primary residence
3. Not being present during guest stays
4. Exceeding the maximum stay duration of seven consecutive nights

The primary reason hosts continue to operate despite these rules appears to be the perception that the risk of getting caught is low compared to the potential profits. However, this calculation is changing as Cleveland ramps up enforcement efforts.

Future Outlook

The future of short-term rental regulation in Cleveland may be influenced by state-level legislation. In May 2022, an Ohio House committee passed House Bill 563, which would prohibit local governments from enacting laws that ban short-term rentals altogether or regulate the number, duration, or frequency of rental periods for these properties. If passed, this bill could significantly impact Cleveland's ability to enforce some of its current restrictions.

In conclusion, while Cleveland has established clear regulations for short-term rentals, enforcement has been inconsistent but is trending toward becoming more stringent. The city is moderately Airbnb-friendly compared to other major markets, and a significant number of hosts do operate without full compliance. However, with increased enforcement efforts and potential changes in state legislation, the landscape for short-term rentals in Cleveland continues to evolve. Investors and hosts should carefully weigh the risks of non-compliance against potential returns when considering entering this market.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Cleveland, Ohio

Launching a successful short-term rental business in Cleveland requires careful planning, attention to regulatory details, and strategic execution. Follow these comprehensive steps to establish your Airbnb or VRBO business in compliance with local regulations while maximizing your investment potential.

Research Cleveland's Neighborhoods and Market Potential

Begin by thoroughly researching Cleveland's neighborhoods to identify areas with strong short-term rental potential. Focus on neighborhoods like Tremont, Ohio City, University Circle, and Downtown that attract tourists and business travelers. Analyze comparable properties on Airbnb and VRBO to understand occupancy rates, average nightly rates, and seasonal fluctuations.

Tip: Look for neighborhoods near Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University, or popular attractions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, as these areas tend to have consistent demand regardless of season.

Understand Cleveland's Short-Term Rental Regulations

Familiarize yourself with Cleveland's specific short-term rental regulations, including the primary residence requirement, host presence requirement, and the seven-night maximum stay limitation. Remember that in Cleveland, you must live in the property for at least 51% of the year and be present during guest stays.

Tip: Consider consulting with a local real estate attorney who specializes in short-term rental regulations to ensure you fully understand all requirements and potential workarounds for your specific situation.

Acquire a Suitable Property

Purchase or lease a property that meets Cleveland's requirements for short-term rentals. Since the property must be your primary residence, consider a duplex or multi-unit building where you can live in one unit and rent out the others, or a single-family home with a separate guest suite.

Tip: Properties with unique architectural features, historical significance, or proximity to Cleveland's attractions often command higher nightly rates and enjoy better occupancy.

Register Your Property with the City

Complete the rental registration process with Cleveland's Department of Building & Housing. Pay the $70 annual registration fee per unit and submit all required documentation, including your property tax statement, lead safe certificate (for properties built before 1978), and floor plan with emergency evacuation details.

Tip: Start the registration process well in advance of your intended launch date, as some requirements like lead certification can take several weeks to complete.

Obtain Necessary Inspections

Schedule and pass all required inspections, including the general rental inspection and, if applicable, lead safety inspection. Ensure your property meets all health and safety standards, including working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and proper egress.

Tip: Conduct a pre-inspection walkthrough using the city's checklist to identify and address potential issues before the official inspection.

Set Up Your Tax Collection System

Establish a system for collecting and remitting all applicable taxes, including the 3% City of Cleveland Transient Occupancy Tax, 5.5% Cuyahoga County bed tax, and Ohio state sales tax. Create a separate bank account for your rental business to simplify accounting and tax reporting.

Tip: Consider using specialized short-term rental management software that can automatically calculate and track tax obligations for each booking.

Secure Proper Insurance Coverage

Obtain comprehensive insurance coverage specifically designed for short-term rentals. Standard homeowner's insurance typically doesn't cover commercial use of your property, so you'll need a specialized policy or endorsement.

Tip: Look for policies that offer coverage for property damage, liability, lost income, and even identity theft protection for your guests.

Create a Business Entity

Consider forming an LLC or other business entity to protect your personal assets and potentially provide tax advantages. Register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State and obtain any necessary business licenses.

Tip: While many hosts operate as sole proprietors, an LLC provides liability protection that can be valuable in the event of guest injuries or property damage claims.

Develop House Rules and Guest Policies

Create clear, comprehensive house rules that comply with Cleveland's regulations. Include information about noise restrictions, maximum occupancy, parking instructions, and emergency procedures. Develop policies for check-in/check-out, cancellations, and security deposits.

Tip: Cleveland neighborhoods vary in character and noise tolerance. Tailor your house rules to respect neighborhood norms while ensuring guests have a clear understanding of expectations.

Prepare Your Property for Guests

Furnish and equip your property to meet or exceed guest expectations. Invest in quality furnishings, comfortable bedding, and essential amenities. Consider Cleveland's weather patterns when equipping your rental—provide umbrellas, snow shovels, or fans depending on the season.

Tip: Create a "Cleveland experience" by incorporating local art, guidebooks, and recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions. This local touch can lead to better reviews and repeat bookings.

Create Professional Listing Photos and Descriptions

Hire a professional photographer to capture high-quality images of your property. Write compelling, accurate descriptions that highlight unique features and nearby attractions. Be transparent about any potential drawbacks to set appropriate guest expectations.

Tip: Seasonal photos can be particularly effective in Cleveland. Consider updating your listing photos to showcase spring blooms, fall foliage, or cozy winter settings depending on the season.

Establish a Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule

Develop a reliable system for cleaning and maintaining your property between guest stays. Either hire a professional cleaning service experienced with short-term rentals or create detailed cleaning checklists if handling turnover yourself.

Tip: Cleveland's weather can be harsh, particularly in winter. Establish a relationship with reliable maintenance professionals who can quickly address heating issues, snow removal, or other seasonal challenges.

Set Competitive Pricing Strategy

Research comparable properties to establish your base pricing, then implement a dynamic pricing strategy that adjusts rates based on seasonality, local events, and demand. Cleveland has distinct high seasons around summer events, sporting events, and graduation weekends.

Tip: Increase rates during special events like Cleveland Browns or Guardians home games, concerts at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, or conventions at the Huntington Convention Center.

Develop a Marketing Plan

List your property on multiple platforms including Airbnb, VRBO, and potentially direct booking sites. Consider creating social media accounts to showcase your property and engage with potential guests.

Tip: Target specific traveler segments that visit Cleveland, such as medical tourists visiting Cleveland Clinic, business travelers, or visitors attending specific events or festivals.

Create a Guest Communication System

Establish efficient systems for communicating with guests before, during, and after their stay. Create templates for common messages, check-in instructions, and local recommendations to save time while providing personalized service.

Tip: Provide guests with neighborhood-specific information about parking regulations, public transportation options, and nearby amenities to enhance their experience.

Monitor and Adjust Your Business

Regularly review your performance metrics, guest feedback, and financial results. Be prepared to adjust your pricing, policies, or amenities based on this data to maximize occupancy and profitability.

Tip: Cleveland's short-term rental market can fluctuate seasonally. Use slower periods to make property improvements or consider offering discounted extended stays to maintain cash flow during off-peak times.

By following these steps and remaining adaptable to Cleveland's evolving short-term rental landscape, you can establish a compliant and profitable Airbnb or VRBO business. Remember that success in this market requires balancing regulatory compliance with guest satisfaction and financial performance.

Who to Contact in Cleveland, Ohio about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

Navigating Cleveland's short-term rental regulations requires connecting with the right municipal departments and community resources. Here's a comprehensive list of official contacts and community resources to help you stay informed and compliant with local regulations.

Department of Building & Housing

The Department of Building & Housing is your primary point of contact for short-term rental registration, compliance questions, and general regulatory information. This department oversees the enforcement of Cleveland's housing codes and handles the annual registration process for short-term rentals.

1. Phone: (216) 664-2282
2. Address: 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 517, Cleveland, OH 44114
3. Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Cleveland Division of Records Administration

The Division of Records Administration manages the Rental Registration Program and Certificates of Occupancy. They can provide information about your registration status and help with documentation requirements.

Rental Registration Phone Lines:

1. (216) 664-2827
2. (216) 664-4216
3. (216) 664-3745

Cleveland Department of Housing

For questions specifically related to property registration and records administration:

1. Phone: (216) 664-2825
2. Email: Bhrental@clevelandohio.gov

Cleveland Division of Assessments and Licenses

This division handles business licensing requirements that may apply to your short-term rental operation.

• Phone: (216) 664-2260
• Address: 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 122, Cleveland, OH 44114

Cleveland City Planning Commission

For questions about zoning regulations and whether your property is in an area zoned for short-term rental use:

• Phone: (216) 664-2210
• Email: cityplanning@clevelandohio.gov
• Address: 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 501, Cleveland, OH 44114

Cleveland City Council

Your local City Council representative can provide insights on current and upcoming legislation affecting short-term rentals in your specific ward.

• Main Phone: (216) 664-2840
• Address: 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 220, Cleveland, OH 44114

Greater Cleveland Real Estate Investors Association (REIA)

While not exclusively focused on short-term rentals, this organization offers networking opportunities and educational resources for all types of real estate investors in the Cleveland area.

• Phone: (216) 299-1987
• Address: Cleveland, OH 44120

Cleveland Airbnb Host Facebook Group

This private Facebook group allows Cleveland hosts to connect, share experiences, and discuss regulatory changes. Search "Cleveland Airbnb Hosts" on Facebook to find and request to join this group.

When contacting any of these resources, be prepared with specific questions about your property and intended use. The regulatory landscape for short-term rentals in Cleveland continues to evolve, so establishing relationships with these contacts can help you stay informed about changes that might affect your operation.

Remember that while community resources can provide valuable insights, official information should always be verified with the appropriate city departments to ensure compliance with current regulations.