Short-Term Rentals and Second Homes in Pine Mountain Club

Short-term rentals are one of the hottest topics in Pine Mountain Club right now, and I get questions about them from buyers, investors, and existing homeowners alike. The landscape has changed in recent years, and if you're thinking about buying a property to rent out — or renting your existing cabin — you need to understand both the POA rules and the county regulations before you commit.

Current POA Rules on Short-Term Rentals

The PMC POA has specific regulations governing short-term rentals within the community. These rules have evolved over time as the short-term rental market has grown. Currently, there are restrictions on the minimum rental period, the number of times per year a property can be rented, and requirements for registration with the POA. These rules exist to balance the interests of full-time residents who value the community's quiet character with property owners who want the flexibility to rent. I always tell buyers to request the latest STR rules directly from the POA before making assumptions — they've updated them more than once in recent years.

Kern County Regulations

In addition to the POA rules, Kern County has its own requirements for short-term rentals. This includes transient occupancy tax (TOT) collection, business licensing, and compliance with safety standards. If you're planning to list on Airbnb, VRBO, or any other platform, you need to be in compliance with both the county and the POA. Penalties for operating without proper registration can include fines and loss of rental privileges. It's not complicated to get set up, but you need to do it correctly from the start.

What Investors Should Know

• Rental income in PMC is seasonal — peak demand is summer and holiday weekends
• Winter rentals can be strong during snow events, but access issues limit reliability
• Property management is essential if you don't live nearby
• Wear and tear from renters is real — budget for more frequent maintenance
• Insurance for short-term rentals is different from standard homeowner's policies

Second Home Considerations

Not every buyer is looking to rent. Many PMC owners use their property as a personal retreat — weekends, holidays, summer vacations. If that's your plan, the considerations are different: winterization when you're away, having someone local who can check on the property after storms, and keeping up with POA maintenance requirements even when you're not on the mountain. A second home in PMC can be a wonderful investment in quality of life, even without rental income.

Insurance for Rentals

Standard homeowner's insurance typically does not cover short-term rental activity. You'll need a policy that explicitly allows it, or a separate landlord/rental policy. Some carriers won't write rental policies in high-fire areas, so shop early. If you're buying with rental intent, factor insurance costs into your pro forma — they can meaningfully affect your returns.

Whether you're buying for personal use, rental income, or both, understanding the rules up front saves headaches later. I help buyers navigate this all the time (DRE# 02011892), and I'll make sure you have the full picture before you make a decision.