Malibu to enforce 12% tax on rentals

Those summer rentals in Malibu are about to get a little more expensive. Owners of Malibu homes, condos or other structures that will be rented for 30 days or less must register with the city and pay a 12% transient occupancy tax. Reva Feldman, administrative services officer, said the requirement has been on the books for many years but that the city had never enforced it.

With budget constraints, Malibu and many other cities with similar laws view the tax as a source of needed revenue. Feldman state "A lot of cities are starting to do this, Palm Springs, Big Bear, and other vacation areas".

Some Malibu property owners rent out their beach front homes during the summer months, when demand is highest. There has been some controversy in the past, because some corporations have rented mansions for exclusive parties to promote various products. Residents have complained about noise and traffic.