COVID-19 and Short Term Rentals FAQ

Short term rental bookings for stays that begin after April 1 are prohibited through May 15, regardless of when they were booked, unless they fall into one of the exempted categories outlined in the order.

The order doesn’t prevent an owner from using their second home, but it would restrict them from renting their second home to another party. 

If you have questions about exemptions to the order and if your property qualifies, please email admin@deschutes.org. 

Yes, the order makes exceptions for stays related to health, safety or employment. Examples might include a stay related to caring for a family member, sheltering in a second home, or a stay related to a business engagement or local employment.

The order doesn’t prevent an owner from using their own timeshare, but it would restrict them from renting their timeshare to another party. 

No.

The short-term rental order does not prohibit reservations needed for permitted essential travel, including reservations needed for health, safety or employment.  If neighbors have a known violation related to the continued use of short-term rentals to large groups or gatherings, they can call (541) 693-6911 to report the violation. Complaints will be reviewed by the appropriate local law enforcement agency and investigated if necessary.

No.

The order applies to all short term rentals in the rural, unincorporated areas of the County, regardless of their proximity to other residences. The primary objective of the order is to reduce non-essential travel to Central Oregon to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

The Board's primary area of oversight is the rural and unincorporated areas of Deschutes County. The City of Bend has already issued guidance: https://www.bendoregon.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=45975.