Dear WH&LA Lodging Member:
 
Following approval by WH&LA's Board of Directors, over the past few months the WH&LA has worked on creating a compilation of information relating to the many requirements and important considerations for those thinking of renting out their property for lodging to the public. We met with numerous organizations impacted by these rentals as well as state agencies responsible for licensing and taxation, to tap into their expertise and create a collaborative guide.

The purpose of Thinking of Renting Out Your Property For Overnight Stays?  is to address the many facets and responsibilities of renting lodging to the public that you are all so well aware of, but that those hearing the appeal of easy money need to know more about before they proceed. It is an educational vehicle that can clarify they need to be licensed, collect & remit taxes, and need to be more aware of their potential personal liabilities.  This is why our partners in this collaboration wanted to share in the messaging. With this education, more potential renters will have to follow the rules should they decide it is a worthwhile venture for them. With increased safety measures and liability protection planned for, tourism in Wisconsin will retain its positive image instead of being surrounded by accidents waiting to happen. Appropriate new revenue in state sales taxes will help state budget challenges, and more room tax revenue for local tourism promotion will help area tourism businesses, including lodging properties already paying their way.
 
The massive exponential growth of Airbnb and other like platforms will not go away, but if owners competing for overnight stays with lodging properties who play by the rules become more aware that they must also start playing by the rules, this could improve the tourism environment considerably and ensure that travelers to Wisconsin can expect not only hospitality, but also more safe stays, while also paying their way with taxes.
 
As municipalities and others evaluate how to handle this overwhelming growth of a new business model, this guide should be helpful in clarifying the current obligations already in place at the state and in some cases local level. The WH&LA will need to remain vigilant in watching for and preventing anticipated proposed reductions to current requirements just for certain specified short term rental owners, and we hope that you will join us in protecting both travelers and Wisconsin lodging properties with adding your voice when we seek your help in the coming legislative session.
 
As always, thank-you for your support.
 
Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season (including a Merry Christmas) and a happy and successful New Year
.

Trisha Pugal, CAE
President, CEO
Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association
pugal@wisconsinlodging.org
262/782-2851