Guests info

[Jason1528]

Reaching out with a question.   I host in Madison, Wisconsin and the city is requiring yet another permit.  My question is,   They are requiring that I turn over all guest names and contact information to them.    I’m not sure I’m comfortable with this or if it’s something that they can legally require.    In the past we have just been required to maintain that list in case there is ever an out break of something and past quests need to be contact. But having to turn over this info to the city seems like an invasion of the privacy of the guest.  Any thought or help appreciated

[Anonymous]

@Jason1528 I'd never recommend defying the local legal requirements, as you could face penalties if Airbnb turns over your data and you're found to be in breach. But guests with privacy concerns would appreciate if you disclose in your listing that you'll be collecting and transmitting their contact information. Those who prefer to go incognito would be well advised to choose a different destination, or avoid unnecessary travel during a pandemic.

[Branka-and-Silvia0]

@Jason1528  That's standard procedure in Croatia and some other countries and it is not new. All tourists have to register at the police by themselves, or, if they stay in a hotel or in Airbnb then their host or a hotel has to register them. Personal info includes name, passport number, citizenship, city of residence, date of birth, and the dates of check-in and out. It has to be done for all members of the group, including children and babies.

Look at it from the bright side - both, you and the police will always know who is using your property and who is responsible. This is a great way to prevent trash-parties and similar illegal activities at your place.

[Helen3]

It's standard in many countries for accommodation providers to handover details of their visitors to the police or local government. 

Of course it's legal for your city to ask for this information particularly during Covid.

I can't see why any legitimate guest or host would have an issue with doing so @Jason1528 

[Lorna170]

@Jason1528    I  went online and took a look at your local regulations and the form that you have to submit.  The information required to be provided by the guest seems very non-specific, just a name and a contact, which may be simply an email.  If you are completing the form with the information that AirBnB provides you about the guest, this could be the AirBnB [disguised] contact email.  As you do not submit this form in real time, but quarterly, and after the guest has come and gone, it seems fairly innocuous.  I appreciate that you are concerned about your guest's privacy, but I would not jeopardize your business by not filing this form.