Encinitas Transient Occupancy Tax (June 2008)

From Ballotpedia


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The Encinitas Transient Occupancy Tax measure appeared on the city-wide ballot in Encinitas, California on the June 3, 2008 ballot, where it was approved. It is also known as Measure F. It imposes an 8% tax on short-term lodging rentals in Encinitas. "Short-term" is defined as less than 30 days. City government officials voted to put the measure, along with the Beach Sand Tax, or Measure G, on the ballot.

There are approximately 130 short-term rentals in Encinitas, and if the tax on those rental units passes, it is expected to put about $250,000 per year into the city's treasury. Encinitas spends $40,000 a year to replenish the sand on its justly popular beaches.

The San Diego County Taxpayers Association opposed Measure F and G. So did City Council candidate Joe Sheffo.

The ballot language reads, "Shall an ordinance be approved to amend Section 3.12.030 of the Encinitas Municipal Code to require guests of short term rental units (for 30 days or less) to pay 8% of the rent charged as a transient occupancy tax effective January 1, 2009?"

The main argument put forward by their supporters in favor of Measures G & F is that guests who stay in local hotels and motels, or B&Bs, already pay a similar tax, whereas guests who stay in short-term housing that is not defined as transient lodging don't pay the tax.