As a Saint Thomas vacation rental owner, there are several local regulations and compliance issues that you should be aware of to ensure your property is in line with the law.

Local Regulations

Zoning

The first thing to consider when renting out your property is zoning. This refers to the specific area where your property is located and what type of use it can be used for. For example, if you live in a residential zone but are planning on using your property as an Airbnb, this could be considered illegal.

Property Tax

In Saint Thomas, there is a 12% property tax that must be paid annually. This includes both the value of the land and any improvements made to it. It’s important to note that failure to pay this tax can result in penalties and even foreclosure on your property.

Business License

If you plan on renting out your property regularly, you will need a business license from the Saint Thomas government. This license must be renewed annually and requires proof of liability insurance and other documentation.

Compliance with Local Regulations

Registering Your Property

To comply with local regulations, it’s important to register your vacation rental property with the Saint Thomas government. This can be done by filling out a simple form and paying a small fee.

Providing Accurate Information

When listing your property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, you must provide accurate information about your property. This includes descriptions of the property, its location, and any amenities it offers. You should also include photos that accurately represent the condition of the property.

Complying with Noise Ordinances

Saint Thomas has noise ordinances in place to protect residents from excessive noise levels. As a vacation rental owner, you must comply with these ordinances by ensuring that your guests do not disturb neighbors excessively.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Insurance

It’s important to have liability insurance for your vacation rental property. This will help protect you financially in the event of an accident or other incident involving your guests.

Guest Screening

While it may be tempting to rent out your property to anyone who wants to stay there, it’s important to screen your guests carefully. This can include checking their credit score, verifying their identity, and reading reviews from previous hosts on platforms like Airbnb.

Maintenance and Repairs

As a vacation rental owner, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing your property to ensure that it remains safe and clean for your guests. This includes performing regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning the pool and fixing broken appliances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, being a Saint Thomas vacation rental owner requires a great deal of responsibility and compliance with local regulations. By understanding and following these regulations, you can ensure that your property is in line with the law and that your guests have a positive experience staying there.