Guide to Short-Term Rental Permit Application: Big Bear Lake City vs. County
For any investor in the Big Bear region, the location of the property—City versus County—is the single most important factor determining your short-term rental (STR) viability.
| Feature | City of Big Bear Lake (Approx. Zip Code 92315) | San Bernardino County (Big Bear City, Sugarloaf, Lake Erwin, etc.) |
| Governing Authority | City of Big Bear Lake | San Bernardino County Land Use Services |
| Initial Permit Fee | Approx. $550 - $600 (Initial) | Approx. $1,281 (Initial)** |
| Renewal Fee | Approx. $325 (Annual) | Approx. $620 (Annual)** |
| Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) | 11% TOT + 2% TBID = 13% Total | 7% TOT + 2% TBID = 9% Total |
| Mandatory Inspection | Yes, a physical inspection is required for initial licensing and annual renewal. | Yes, a physical inspection is required for initial licensing and may be subject to periodic inspection. |
| Owner/Agent Exam | Yes, all owners/agents must pass an annual certification exam based on the City's TPHR (Transient Private Home Rental) Ordinance. | No mandatory exam. |
*Fees are estimates and subject to change. Always verify with the respective authority.
Critical Differences to Note:
Cost of Operation: STRs in the City of Big Bear Lake generally have a higher total tax burden (13% vs. 9%) and higher combined fees.
Regulation Intensity: The City of Big Bear Lake is widely considered to have a more stringent and actively enforced program, including the mandatory certification exam and annual inspection.
Big Bear City: While the name suggests "City" rules, Big Bear City, CA is actually an unincorporated community governed by San Bernardino County, falling under the County's less-taxing fee and tax structure.
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