If you plan to rent out your property in East Hampton, understanding the East Hampton rental registry is essential for compliance, safety, and peace of mind. With increased regulations on short-term and long-term rentals across Suffolk County, registering your rental is not just recommended; it’s required by law. Below, you’ll find updated answers to the most common questions about the rental registry East Hampton homeowners need to follow.
Fast Facts: East Hampton Rental Registry
What is the East Hampton rental registry?
The East Hampton rental registry is a mandatory program that requires all property owners who rent their homes to register with the town, obtain a Rental Registry Number, and keep rental information current for safety and code enforcement.
How much is the fee, and how long is registration valid?
Registration costs $100 and is valid for two years from the date of issue. Updates are free of charge during the registration period.
Who needs to register?
Any property owner renting their property, whether for the short or long term, must register unless they’re renting to immediate family or owner-occupying a portion of the home.
What happens if you don’t register?
Unregistered rentals can result in fines of $3,000 to $15,000 or up to 6 months of jail time. Daily violations can be issued for ongoing non-compliance.
Do you have to include the registry number in your listing?
Yes. Failure to post the registry number in any advertisement is illegal and carries fines of $150 to $1,500 or up to 15 days in jail.
Understanding the Town of East Hampton Rental Registry
The town of East Hampton’s rental registry is designed to keep rental properties safe, legal, and well-regulated. Every owner renting out a property must complete the registration process and display the registry number on all rental advertisements. The registry applies to both year-round and seasonal rentals and is a cornerstone of East Hampton’s efforts to balance community needs with homeowner flexibility.
Why Did East Hampton Create the Rental Registry?
The East Hampton town rental registry was adopted to:
- Protect the safety of tenants, first responders, and neighbors.
- Maintain community quality of life and prevent unsafe or overcrowded conditions.
- Streamline code enforcement and ensure only compliant properties are rented.
- Provide public safety and building officials with essential property and occupancy data.
- Help regulate short-term rentals and shared houses and prevent illegal subletting.
How Do You Register Your Rental Property in East Hampton?
Obtain the Registration Forms:
Forms are available at the Building Department (300 Pantigo Place) or online on the town’s website under “Rental Registry.”
Submit Required Documents:
- Notarized Rental Property Registration Form
- Notarized Rental Property Self-Inspection Checklist
- Certificate of Occupancy (or confirmation by the Building Department)
- $100 registration fee
Inspection Checklist:
Owners must complete a self-inspection checklist covering items like smoke detectors, proper handrails, visible house numbers, and pool safety requirements. The owner or a licensed inspector can fill this out.
Receive Your Rental Registry Number:
Once approved, the Building Department will issue a registry number valid for two years.
Post the registry number in all listings.
All rental advertisements, including online listings, must include your registry number.
Who Is Exempt from the East Hampton Rental Registry?
- Properties occupied by immediate family only (spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren)
- Owner-occupied homes where only a portion is rented out
What Happens If You Don’t Register or Update Your Information?
Failing to register, update tenant information, or post the registry number on ads can result in severe penalties:
- Fines from $3,000 to $15,000 per violation and/or up to 6 months in jail
- Daily violation tickets for continued non-compliance
- Fines for not listing the registry number in advertisements ($150 to $1,500 or up to 15 days in jail)
Updating Your Registration
If tenant or property information changes during the two-year registration period, you must submit a free update form. This includes changes in tenant names, number of bedrooms, or rental terms.
Why Is the Registry Enforced, and What Are the Penalties?
The registry is enforced to ensure that all rental properties meet health and safety standards, are not overcrowded, and comply with zoning laws. The town can issue daily tickets for ongoing violations, making compliance essential for every rental owner.
Common East Hampton Rental Registry Questions
Do you need to register if you rent to family?
No, registration is not required if your property is only occupied by immediate family members.
What if you don’t have tenant info at registration?
You can register your property without tenant information, then update it once tenants are selected.
Does the registry change how often I can rent?
No, existing rules still apply. For short-term rentals, you can rent twice in six months if under two weeks per rental; otherwise, there’s no limit for longer terms.
Are tenants liable if the owner fails to register?
Yes, tenants living in unregistered properties may also face penalties.
Stay Compliant with the East Hampton Rental Registry
Following the rental registry East Hampton requirements is essential for legal and profitable renting in 2025. Register your property, keep information up to date, and always post your registry number in your ads to avoid penalties and ensure your rental remains safe and compliant. For more details and forms, visit the official East Hampton website or contact the Building Department directly.