Is Airbnb legal in Ruidoso?

Airbnb Regulations in Ruidoso: A Brief Overview

The Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, has established specific regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) in response to the growing popularity of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Under Ordinance 2023-12, effective September 2023, property owners intending to rent out their homes for fewer than 30 consecutive nights must adhere to the following requirements:

1. Permit and Registration: All short-term rental properties must obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit and a CRS Business Registration Number. This is mandatory before advertising or renting out the property.

2. Compliance with Local Code: Property owners must ensure compliance with all Ruidoso municipal ordinances, including safety regulations set forth by the Fire and Forestry Departments. This includes having working smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and clear escape routes.

3. Lodger's Tax: A 5% Lodger’s Tax and applicable Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) on the rental income are required, which must be collected from guests and remitted to the state by the 25th of each month.

4. Property Standards: STRs are only permitted in established dwelling units, not in RVs, tents, or other non-permanent structures. Additionally, owners are encouraged to consider obtaining rental insurance to protect their investment.

5. Inspections and Fines: Compliance inspections will be conducted to ensure that properties meet safety standards. Failure to comply can result in fines, with specific penalties applied for housing violations.

6. Registration Process: Owners can apply for the necessary permits through the MuniRevs registration site, which requires documentation proving compliance and the establishment of the rental unit.

7. Wildlife Safety: Rental property owners are urged to educate their guests about local wildlife regulations, emphasizing that interaction with wildlife can be harmful and is illegal.

Overall, potential Airbnb hosts in Ruidoso must navigate these regulations carefully to ensure they fulfill all legal obligations and protect both their properties and their guests. For further information or assistance, property owners can contact the Ruidoso Short-Term Rental Administrative Assistant.