Big Bear is a two-season mountain market: snow brings Southern California skiers in winter, and the lake and trails bring families in summer. That makes cleaning here more than a quick wipe-down. Snow, hot tubs, wood stoves and steep driveways all shape who you hire and what you pay. Start by confirming whether your cabin is inside the City of Big Bear Lake or in unincorporated San Bernardino County (Big Bear City, Fawnskin, Sugarloaf and other areas), because the permit and tax rules differ.
Inside the City of Big Bear Lake, vacation rentals must register annually through the city's vacation rental program. The city lists a $635 registration fee, requires proof of ownership and liability insurance, and inspects the property before the first rental. Registration and inspection can take two to four weeks, and you cannot rent during that period.
The city charges a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (as of January 1, 2025) plus a 3% Big Bear Lake Tourism Business Improvement District assessment, for 13% total. Airbnb collects and remits the TOT only, so owners must remit the 3% TBID themselves, and everyone files a monthly report with the city.
In unincorporated areas, San Bernardino County runs its own short-term rental permit. As of July 1, 2026, a new county application totals $1,144, includes an exterior inspection and a neighbor notification period, and quiet hours run 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Rules change often in Big Bear, so confirm with the city or county before listing.
A local property management company reports guest turnover cleaning ranging from about $60 to $450 depending on home size. The extras add up: the same source lists about $25 for a hot tub refresh between back-to-back guests (or $100 to $150 a month for weekly service) and $30 to $175 per snow removal visit depending on snowfall and driveway size. Budget extra time in winter for melted snow and mud tracked across floors, ash from fireplaces and stoves, and cleaners who may need chains to reach your street after a storm.
Winter weekends and holidays, especially the stretch from Christmas through Presidents' Day, are the busiest, with Sunday checkouts and Friday arrivals stacking up. Summer is a strong second season around the lake. Spring and late fall shoulder months are quieter and are the best time for deep cleans, carpet cleaning and repairs. Line up both a cleaner and a snow removal contractor before the first storm, not after.
Yes. Inside city limits you must register with the city's vacation rental program and pass an inspection. In unincorporated Big Bear areas, you need a San Bernardino County short-term rental permit.
No. In the city, Airbnb remits the 10% TOT but not the 3% TBID assessment, which owners must remit monthly. Direct bookings require you to remit both.
The city says registration and inspection take two to four weeks. The county process includes required notification periods, so allow more time there.
Sources:
Part of the same family as WelcomeScreen and Valdra