The Hocking Hills region of Ohio is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of lodging options. As a visitor to this picturesque area, it’s important to understand the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax, a crucial component of your travel experience.
Hocking Hills Lodging Tax is a six percent tax, which is then split – three percent to the county and three percent to the township where your lodging is located. This tax is collected from transient guests and is the responsibility of lodging operators to collect and remit to the county and township.
Understanding the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax
Rate of the Hocking County Bed Tax
The Hocking Hills Lodging Tax is set at a rate of 6%, with half (3%) going to the county and the other half (3%) going to the township where the lodging is located. This tax applies to all short-term rentals, including bed and breakfasts, cabins, and other accommodations.
Frequency of Filing
Lodging establishments in Hocking County are required to file the County bed tax on a monthly basis. The tax is due by the end of the following month, based on the previous month’s occupancy. For example, the tax for December’s bookings would be due by the end of January.
Bed and Breakfast or House/Room Facilities
Yes, bed and breakfast establishments, as well as any other short-term rental facilities, are required to collect the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax from their guests. This includes private homes, cabins, and rooms rented out on a short-term basis.
Additional Considerations
Registration
Operators of new short-term rentals in Hocking County must register by filling out the registration form and emailing it to [email protected]. This ensures that the lodging establishment is properly set up to collect and remit the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax.
Payment Methods
Lodging operators can make their Hocking Hills Lodging Tax payments in several ways:
– By mail with a check
– By email with a check sent directly from the bank
– Through the online payment portal
It’s important to note that the online payment portal only covers the county portion of the tax, and the township portion must be paid separately.
Late Penalty
If the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax payment is not made by the last day of the following month, a late penalty of 10% of the tax due will be applied. If the payment is more than 30 days late, the late fee can increase to 25% of the tax owed.
Exemptions
While federal or non-Ohio state employees are exempt from the Hocking Hills Lodging Tax, schools and churches are not exempt from this tax. Lodging operators should be aware of these exemptions and apply them accordingly.
Conclusion
The Hocking Hills Lodging Tax is an essential component of the visitor experience in this beautiful region of Ohio. By understanding the tax rate, filing requirements, payment methods, and exemptions, mountains touring enthusiasts can plan their Hocking Hills adventures with confidence and ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Remember, as a visitor, you can contribute to the local economy and support the ongoing development and maintenance of the Hocking Hills region by being a responsible and informed traveler. Enjoy your time in this stunning natural wonder!