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 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.
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.
Property owners and managers of properties affected by the restrictions should take reasonable steps to terminate the current occupancy of any guests not exempted by the order. No new occupancies in violation of this order may be rented.
