Hauserman Rental Group FAQ’s

Common Booking & Rental Policies

What is the cancellation policy for North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals?

Hauserman Rental Group’s cancellation policy depends on how far in advance you cancel relative to your scheduled arrival date:

  • More than 30 days from arrival: An amount equal to your deposit is subject to forfeiture unless the rental property is re-rented for the same dates at the same rate.
  • Less than 30 days from arrival: The full rental charge and applicable taxes are subject to forfeiture if the property is not re-rented for the same dates and rate.
  • Bookings made within 30 days of arrival: The full balance is due immediately upon booking. If you cancel after signing the rental contract and your card has been processed, all rental charges and taxes are subject to forfeiture unless the property is re-rented for the same dates at the same rate.
  • Re-rented properties: If Hauserman Rental Group successfully re-rents the unit for the exact same dates at the same rate, your funds will be refunded, minus a 4% credit card processing fee on any monies collected.
  • Third-Party Bookings: Please note that Airbnb and VRBO cancellation policies supersede Hauserman Rental Group’s standard direct booking policy.
  • Cancellation Policy: Cancellation policies are subject to change. The cancellation policy that applies to your reservation will be clearly stated at the time of booking and included in your rental agreement.
When will I receive the arrival code for my North Lake Tahoe vacation rental?

Keyless entry codes and digital check-in instructions are sent via email no later than 4:00 PM on your scheduled day of arrival.


Local Nuances & Lake Tahoe Regulations

What Placer County Short-Term Rental (STR) rules apply to vacation rentals?

All guests staying in North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals must strictly adhere to Placer County’s Short-Term Rental (STR) Ordinance. Non-compliance fines range from $1,500 to $5,000 and can be issued directly to guests. Key county regulations include:

  • Quiet Hours: Strictly enforced from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM. No noise should be audible across property lines.
  • Amplified Outdoor Sound: Outdoor speakers or amplified sound devices are strictly prohibited at all times.
  • On-Street Parking: Parking on public roads and streets is strictly prohibited year-round in Placer County. All vehicles must park in designated driveways or garages.
What are the local Lake Tahoe rules for boats, watercraft, and public beaches?

To protect Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem and preserve public safety, local laws strictly regulate watercraft and beach activities:

  • Mandatory Watercraft Inspections: All motorized and trailered watercraft require mandatory aquatic invasive species (AIS) inspections prior to launching into Lake Tahoe.
  • Hand-Launched Watercraft: Non-motorized and electric hand-launched watercraft (such as paddleboards, kayaks, and e-Foils) must be completely clean, drained, and dry before entering the water.
  • Beach Prohibitions: Glass containers, smoking, charcoal BBQs, and open campfires are strictly prohibited on all public beaches and swim areas.
Are there dog-friendly beaches near North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals?

While dogs are prohibited on most public swimming beaches across Lake Tahoe, dogs are welcome at designated dog-friendly beaches, including:

  • Hurricane Bay (West Shore)
  • Coon Street Beach (Kings Beach / North Shore)
  • Kiva Beach (South Shore)
  • Zephyr Cove Beach (North end / East Shore)

Wildlife & Winter Preparedness

What is a bear fence and do I need to use it during my stay?

A bear fence in Lake Tahoe is a specialized, non-lethal electric deterrent system installed around doors, windows, and decks to prevent black bears from breaking into vacation homes and vehicles. It delivers a safe, harmless shock that trains bears to stay away from the home.

  • During your stay: You may activate the bear fence when leaving the property if you feel comfortable doing so. Otherwise, it is safe to leave it off while you are occupying the rental home.
  • At checkout: Hauserman Rental Group kindly requests that guests switch the bear fence system ON upon departure..
When does the snowplow clear driveways and roads in North Lake Tahoe?

Snow removal in Lake Tahoe depends on whether it is a private driveway or a public road:

  • Private Driveways: Each vacation rental home maintains a private contract with a local plow service. Snowplows automatically clear driveways after snowfall exceeds 6 inches. Specific arrival times depend on local plow routes.
  • County Roads: Placer County performs road-clearing operations 24/7 during active winter storms. Priority routes are cleared first, followed by residential streets, typically servicing routes every 12 to 24 hours.
  • Winter Driving Laws: Vehicle tire chains or designated snow/winter tires are frequently required by California law during winter weather conditions.

Property Specifics & “Know Before You Go”

What are the check-in and check-out procedures?
  • Standard Check-In (4:00 PM): Check-in opens at 4:00 PM. Direct entry instructions will be emailed to you prior to arrival. Hauserman Rental Group’s office is open 7 days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you arrive early, feel free to explore Tahoe City or local beaches while your property undergoes professional cleaning and inspection. Please report any pre-existing damages immediately upon arrival.
  • Late Arrivals: Guests arriving after 4:00 PM may go directly to the rental property. Please maintain low noise levels to respect quiet hours when unloading late at night.
  • Standard Check-Out (11:00 AM): Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Please notify Hauserman Rental Group when vacating. Before departing, leave unused beds made, dispose of all trash, and ensure all dishes are clean.
  • Lockbox & Late Fees: Secure the property key back inside the lockbox upon departure. Missing keys incur a $50 replacement fee. Unapproved late check-outs are subject to a $50 per hour late fee.
How should I handle fireplace ashes at checkout?

Do not place fireplace ashes in trash cans, plastic bags, or paper bags due to severe fire risk. Leave all ashes inside the fireplace; professional housekeeping staff will safely dispose of them after your departure.

What should I know about seasonal amenities, supplies, and packing?
  • Air Conditioning: Our properties do not feature air conditioning unless explicitly stated in the individual listing description.
  • Grills & Firewood: Propane grills are packed away during the winter season (November through Memorial Day). Charcoal grills are completely banned in North Lake Tahoe due to wildfire risks. Firewood is not supplied during summer months (Memorial Day through October).
  • Toiletries & Linens: Bath towels and bed linens are provided. Standard personal toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash) and beach towels are not provided, so guests should pack these items.
  • Kitchen Staples: Basic cooking supplies like spices, flour, or sugar left by previous guests are not guaranteed to be in stock.
  • Pet Fees: Designated dog-friendly vacation rentals require an additional pet fee of $100 + tax per dog.