Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in The Dalles, OR?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in The Dalles, Oregon. The city has established a comprehensive regulatory framework that permits STR operations while implementing measures to balance community livability with economic opportunities. As of the latest available information, The Dalles maintains an active licensing program for short-term rentals, with 45 currently licensed units within city limits. However, the city is actively considering significant regulatory amendments that investors should monitor closely.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in The Dalles

Step 1: Understand Current Licensing Status

The Dalles currently operates under a licensing system for short-term rentals. All operators must obtain an annual, non-transferable license that is valid from January 1 to December 31.

Step 2: Navigate Current Restrictions

Currently, there is a moratorium on new licenses for non-owner-occupied STRs in residential zones, unless modified or repealed by the City Council. Operators with valid, grandfathered licenses and in good standing can reapply to continue operations.

Step 3: Prepare for Proposed Changes

The City Council is considering several amendments that may significantly impact new applications, including:

• A maximum license cap (proposed at 71 total listings based on 1% of housing inventory)
• Implementation of a lottery system for awarding licenses
• Enhanced transient room tax compliance requirements
• Proximity requirements (300 feet from existing STRs in residential zones)

Step 4: Complete Annual Licensing Process

• Apply for annual license renewal by December 31 each year
• Submit required documentation and fees
• Ensure compliance with all operating standards

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City-Level Requirements

1. Annual STR License ($90)

   • Non-transferable license valid January 1 - December 31
   • Application requires current contact information
   • License void upon property transfer

2. Transient Room Tax Compliance

   • Submit proof of past year's Transient Room Tax payment
   • Non-compliance results in license denial

3. Good Neighbor Guidelines Acknowledgment

   • Must acknowledge receipt of guidelines
   • Required to provide guidelines to all STR guests

4. Waste Disposal Documentation

   • Weekly waste disposal is mandatory
   • Provide proof of garbage service

Safety and Building Compliance

1. Safety Checklist Completion

   • Complete safety requirements before obtaining license
   • Properties must have smoke detectors and fire alarms
   • Compliance with all building safety codes

2. Food Service License (if applicable)

   • Required if offering food services
   • Must secure license from Oregon Department of Human Services

State-Level Requirements (Oregon)

1. Business Registration

   • Register as business with appropriate state agencies
   • Obtain necessary tax identification numbers

2. Liquor Liability Insurance (if applicable)

   • If providing liquor at property
   • Insurance professionals recommend including liquor liability in policy

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of The Dalles Regulations

Length of Stay

• Maximum 30 consecutive days per guest stay

Occupancy Restrictions

• Maximum two people per bedroom
• Occupancy limits must be clearly posted near main entrance
• Compliance with zoning occupancy rules

Special Events

• Prohibition on special events (weddings, corporate functions, commercial gatherings)
• Proposed amendment may allow special events in non-residential zones

Parking Requirements

• Off-street parking required based on number of guest rooms
• Historic properties may apply for parking exemptions
• Proposed minimum parking: one space per guest room

Proximity Requirements (Proposed)

• New STRs in residential zones cannot be within 300 feet of existing licensed STRs
• Applies to Low, Medium, and High Density Residential zoning districts

Yard Screening (Proposed)

• Currently required if STR shares yard/common area with neighboring property
• Proposed expansion to screen yards that abut unscreened neighboring yards

Wasco County Regulations

• County-level building codes apply to all STR properties
• Reference Wasco County Building Codes for property-specific requirements

State of Oregon Regulations

• Oregon state lodging tax obligations apply to all STR operators
• State-level health and safety standards for accommodations

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of The Dalles Community Development Department

• Email: cdd@ci.the-dalles.or.us
• Physical Address: City Hall, 313 Court Street, The Dalles, OR 97058
• Phone: (541) 296-5481
• Director: Joshua Chandler, Community Development Director

Planning Commission

• Contact: Through Community Development Department
• Meeting Information: Available on city website meetings & agendas section

Enforcement Policies and Appeals

Current Enforcement

• Violations result in fines up to $250 per infraction per day
• License revocation for recurrent violations or public health/safety risks
• Operating without a license subject to enforcement action

Proposed Enhancements

• Stricter compliance verification for transient room tax obligations
• Enhanced accountability measures for licensees

Appeals Process

• License denials and enforcement actions subject to appeal
• Contact Community Development Department for appeal procedures

Links to Source Pages

Official City Resources

• The Dalles STR Licensing: www.thedalles.org/department/community_development_planning/short_term_rentals.php
• The Dalles Municipal Code Chapter 8.02: ecode360.com/44563167#44563167
• Transient Room Tax Regulations: ecode360.com/44563230#44563230
• Housing Needs Analysis (2023): www.thedalles.org/The%20Dalles%20Housing%20and%20Residential%20Land%20Needs%20Assessment,%202023.pdf
• Zoning Map: public.co.wasco.or.us/gisportal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=90994ca55a724603a2281e5e40139457

State Resources

• Oregon Department of Human Services Food Safety: www.oregon.gov/oda/food-safety/fs-licensing/Pages/default.aspx

Additional Information

• The Dalles Municipal Code (Full): ecode360.com/TH5023
• Wasco County Building Codes: www.co.wasco.or.us/departments/building_codes/index.php

Important Considerations for Investors

1. Regulatory Environment: The Dalles is actively reviewing and potentially tightening STR regulations, with proposals including license caps, lottery systems, and enhanced compliance requirements.

2. Current Capacity: With only 45 licensed STRs and a proposed cap of 71, competition may increase as regulations potentially tighten.

3. Compliance Requirements: The city places significant emphasis on transient room tax compliance, good neighbor guidelines, and safety requirements.

4. Future Planning: Monitor City Council meetings and proposed amendments, as the regulatory environment is expected to evolve significantly in the near term.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview based on available information as of the latest update. Given the ongoing regulatory discussions and proposed amendments, investors should maintain regular contact with the Community Development Department for the most current requirements and application procedures.