Malibu to enforce 12% tax on short-term rentals

That summer rental in Malibu is about to get a little more expensive.

As of July 1, 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 had been on the books for many years but that the city had never enforced it.

Given budget constraints, Malibu and many other cities with similar laws view the tax as a source of needed revenue.

"A lot of cities are starting to do this -- Palm Springs, Big Bear, vacation areas," Feldman said.

Some property owners in Malibu rent out their beachfront 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. Some residents have complained about noise and traffic.

Property owners can find more information on the city's website, www.ci.malibu.ca.us/.

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martha.groves@latimes.com