Registering & Remitting Lodging Taxes
This resource is being published for those operating, or interested in operating, a short-term rental property for overnight guests in Ross County, Ohio. This information applies to properties that are located in all communities in Ross County such as Chillicothe, Bainbridge, Frankfort, Kingston, and Richmond Dale to name a few.
Whether you are renting a house, an apartment, individual rooms, or any combination a short-term property owner/business must register with the Ross County Auditor and collect and remit lodging tax. This is pursuant to Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 5739.09. Additionally, the definition of “lodging tax” was expanded to include any lodging facilities having one or more rooms available to overnight guests per ORC 5739.091. Ohio law requires that all lodging facilities collect and remit these pass-thru tax dollars as written, similar to the collection/remittance procedures of sales tax.
The Ross County Lodging Excise Tax Resolution #009-24 can be read by clicking here.
Steps to follow to register with the Ross County Auditor:
1.Register your property with Ross County Auditor. Registration form can be downloaded by clicking here.
2.Contact the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau to learn about free or low cost opportunities to promote your facility.
3.Start Booking your property, collect lodging taxes and remit quarterly taxes to Ross County Auditor. Click here for the Quarterly Lodging Tax Remittance Form.
Property Owner Responsibility
It is each short-term property owner’s responsibility to register and collect lodging tax dollars per Ohio law as stated in the Ohio Revised Code.
There are several platforms that offer the ability to promote your facility for overnight guests such as Airbnb and VRBO. Regardless of the platform that you choose, it is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure that lodging taxes are being collected and remitted to the Ross County Auditor’s office on a quarterly basis. Do not assume that the platform is remitting lodging taxes on behalf of the property owner.
Short-Term Rental Resources
Marketing
• Work with the Ross-Chillicothe Visitors Bureau to receive complimentary listing on the website, mobile app, and in the official Visitors Guide.
• Hire a professional photographer to capture the best of your property.
• Create a “word portrait” of your property to enhance your property’s description.
Safety
• Fire/Life Safety: Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Smoke Alarms, Fire Extinguishers, First-aid Kit, and Emergency Plan & Local Numbers
• 24-Hour contact information of the property manager posted at the property and rental agreement.
• Written instructions for use of fireplaces, outdoor heating appliances/outdoor fires, and pools/hot tubs.
Good Neighbor
• Please respect neighbors and their property.
• Noise & Disturbance: Respect neighbor’s right to quiet enjoyment of their home & property. Check local ordinances for noise compliance.
•Parking: Ensure guests are aware of where they can park to access the property and avoid blocking neighboring driveways/access.
Expected Conveniences
• Invest in High-speed internet (This is a MUST)
• Create a dedicated workspace including a desk, multi-plugs, sockets, well-lit area, etc.
• Make your guests feel at home by installing smart amenities.
The key to success is to stay current and ahead of competition and making guests’ stay memorable and exceeding expectations. Always strive for Great Service to receive Great Reviews to drive occupancy.