🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Clinton County, NY
Clinton County Launches STR Registration Reset—Grace Period Now Open
A Grace Period with a Purpose: Clinton County Urges STR Hosts to Register
Clinton County is giving its short-term rental host community a helpful reset button this season. Whether locals rent out a cozy cabin for weekend fishermen or manage a guest-ready home through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, the message from the County Treasurer’s Office is consistent: every STR operator must register with the County, no exceptions. Even if the booking platform submits occupancy tax automatically, hosts still have reporting responsibilities of their own.
Deputy Treasurer and Finance Manager Rebecca Murphy says many hosts simply didn’t realize they still needed to file quarterly reports. These reports allow the County to match tax records, ensure compliance with state rules, and maintain a clear view of the STR landscape. Rather than penalize anyone who missed a step, the County is choosing to offer something refreshingly practical: a one-time grace period.
Here’s the highlight ✨: operators who register and pay any outstanding taxes owed up to October 31 and can show their oversight was rooted in reasonable cause can have penalties and interest waived entirely if they complete the process by February 28, 2026.
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Legislature Chairman Mark Henry emphasized that fairness is at the heart of this initiative. Short-term rentals are valuable to Clinton County’s growing tourism sector. Offering hosts a fair chance to get in compliance supports both the local economy and the integrity of the tax system.
To keep communication clear, the County has already mailed notices to STR owners identified through their online listings. These letters encourage hosts to verify their registration status and update any missing information. Finance Committee Chairman Rob Timmons points out that every properly filed return feeds directly into the community. Revenues from the occupancy tax are locked into programs that uplift the County’s tourism presence — expanding fishing tournaments, boosting marketing efforts and high-traffic domestic markets, and investing in research to ensure Clinton County stands strong among regional competitors.
For STR owners, this is a moment to align with local rules, contribute to community growth, and eliminate any lingering penalties. With the grace period in effect and support available for anyone unsure of the process, Clinton County is making it easy for hosts to step confidently into compliance.
Clinton County appreciates the cooperation of property owners and encourages anyone needing assistance to reach out to the Treasurer’s Office.
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