Can you host on multiple platforms legally?

Yes, you can legally host your property on multiple short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, provided you comply with all local, state, and federal regulations. Operating across various platforms can help maximize your booking potential, but it requires careful management to ensure legal and operational compliance.

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1. Obtain the Necessary Permits and Licenses

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• Regardless of the platform, hosts must secure all required permits and licenses for short-term rentals.

• For example, in Portland, Maine, this includes obtaining a Short-Term Rental (STR) Permit and complying with zoning laws. Learn more

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2. Collect and Remit Applicable Taxes

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• Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting state sales tax and local lodging taxes, even if multiple platforms are used.

• Some platforms automatically collect taxes, but hosts must verify full compliance. Register Here

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3. Display Permit Numbers Across All Listings

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• Portland, Maine, and many other cities require that permit numbers be displayed on all listings, regardless of the platform.

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4. Synchronize Booking Calendars

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• To avoid double bookings and guest dissatisfaction, synchronize calendars across platforms using property management software.

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5. Comply with Platform-Specific Rules

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• Each platform (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com) has its own compliance policies. Understanding and following each platform’s requirements is critical.

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6. Neighbor and Community Compliance

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• Notify neighbors and follow community rules as required by local regulations, even when listing on multiple platforms.

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Penalties for Non-Compliance

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Failure to adhere to regulations across platforms can lead to:

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• Fines: Significant fines for missing permits or taxes.

• Platform Bans: Violations of platform rules can result in listing removal.

• Permit Revocation: Local authorities may revoke licenses for repeated offenses.

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Helpful Resources for Multi-Platform Hosts

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• Booking.com Rules for Vacation Rental Compliance (Ensure compliance across booking platforms)

• Airbnb Permit Process in Denver (Guidance on permit processes)

• Do I Need a License to List on VRBO in Austin? (Understand multi-platform licensing requirements)

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How Lodge Compliance Can Help Multi-Platform Hosts

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Managing short-term rentals across multiple platforms can be complex. Lodge Compliance makes it easier with:

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• Centralized Compliance Management: Track all permits and licenses across platforms.

• Automated Tax Calculation: Simplify tax collection and remittance, even across multiple listings.

• Platform-Specific Guidance: Get tailored advice for Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and more.

• Operational Efficiency: Manage booking calendars, guest communication, and safety compliance from one place.

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Stay legally compliant and optimize your short-term rental business on any platform. Request a Demo today to streamline your operations.

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Maximize Bookings and Stay Compliant

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Hosting on multiple platforms can increase your earnings, but it requires careful management and legal compliance. By securing proper permits, managing taxes, and following platform guidelines, you can grow your business while staying fully compliant.