Clarity First

Incline Village was designed in 1960 as an 'exclusive community' next to a National Treasure with special amenities and lake access. As Tahoe travelers 'discovered' the serenity of the northeast shore (accelerated by Flume and East Shore Trails), the demand for lodging pushed Short Term Rentals into new territory. The increased traffic brought new local vs. visitor problems, mostly caused by lack of enforceable hosting protocols.

Vacation rentals have been part of Tahoe's lodging landscape for 40+years. The increase of visitors to the North Shore, coupled with only 4 commercial lodging options (in Incline/Crystal Bay), make Short Term Rentals attractive for visitors and property owners seeking higher returns. However, not all visitors are respectful, and those lacking in stewardship behavior end up costing the neighborhoods, wildlife and lake with additional; trash, noise, bear problems and parking. This has lead to a local outcry, lawsuits, hostilities, pressure on govt services and polarizing meetings with two sides: 'shut it down' vs. 'let the money keep rolling in'.

There is a Middle Way... CHANGE the HOSTING, ie; the Visitor Menu and lodging protocols aligned with what best serves the Lake. Example: Tahoe Stewardship Hosting Standard (a solution). It's hosting protocal puts the Lake first. When we make decisions based on what is best for Lake Tahoe, our National Treasure (that unfortunately didn't become a park, so it is up to locals to lead by example)...everyone wins.