Partner Resources
Welcome!
Union County Tourism is dedicated to helping our tourism partners grow their businesses by offering a variety of complimentary services and opportunities. These initiatives, designed for hospitality-related businesses and organizations, as well as event promoters, will supply you with the tools and resources you need to showcase Union County to visitors and residents alike, as well as tour operators, event organizers, meeting planners, and travel media.
Thank you for being a tourism partner!
Partner Portal
The Union County Tourism Partner Portal is designed to grow your business by providing a host of complementary services and marketing opportunities. The Partner Portal is an online, easy-to-use resource that allows our tourism partners to do the following:
- Manage and update contact information and listings on the tourism website
- Add photos and YouTube videos
- Submit logos
- Submit a calendar of events
- Add coupons, special offers, and packages
- Assess industry news bulletins and opportunities
- Respond to leads and business opportunities
- Submit RFPs and service requests to our sales department
Union County Short-Term Rental Owners & Future Hosts
Whether you’re already operating a short-term rental or thinking about becoming a host, this page highlights what you need to know—and the opportunities available—in Union County. Short-term rentals play an important role in the visitor experience and make a meaningful contribution to our local tourism economy.
Adopted through a resolution to the Union County excise tax code of regulations on November 26, 2025, this update takes effect July 1, 2026, and requires short-term rental owners to remit lodging tax directly to the Union County Auditor’s office. The change brings short-term rentals into parity with local hotels and traditional lodging properties, creating a fair and consistent approach across all accommodations. Revenue generated through the lodging excise tax supports destination marketing initiatives that attract visitors, strengthen Union County’s tourism economy, and deliver benefits to local businesses and communities.
What Hosts Need to Know
Lodging Tax Requirements
- A 3% Union County lodging tax applies to all overnight stays.
- This tax must be collected from guests and submitted monthly to the Union County Auditor.
- Hosting platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) do NOT collect or remit this tax for you.
- Even if you have no rentals during a reporting period, you must still submit a reporting form to remain in good standing.
- Have questions? See Short-term Rental Frequently Asked Questions.
Documents available for download:
Owner Responsibility
- All short-term rental owners are required to collect and remit lodging tax under Ohio Revised Code (ORC 5739.09 and 5739.091).
- This applies to homes, apartments, individual rooms, or any lodging offered overnight.
- Responsibility remains with the property owner, regardless of the booking platform.
How Union County Tourism Supports Hosts
Union County Tourism offers free resources and promotion to help short-term rental owners attract guests and succeed:
- Complimentary listing on UnionCountyOH.com (available after demonstrated lodging tax remittance)
- Inclusion in tourism promotions
- Local expertise and direct support for questions or setup
Lodging tax revenue is reinvested into destination marketing, visitor amenities, and placemaking—helping drive demand for local accommodations.
Best Practices for Successful Hosting
Marketing
- Use professional photography
- Write a clear, inviting property description
- Highlight what makes your property unique and local
Safety & Compliance
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire extinguisher and first-aid kit
- Emergency contact information posted on-site
- Written instructions for fireplaces, outdoor heating, pools, or hot tubs
Being a Good Neighbor
- Follow local noise ordinances
- Clearly communicate parking rules to guests
- Respect neighboring properties and residents
Guest Conveniences
- High-speed internet (essential)
- Dedicated workspace with good lighting and outlets
- Smart amenities that enhance comfort and ease of stay
- Clean, well-maintained spaces and responsive service
Great guest experiences lead to strong reviews, repeat visits, and higher occupancy.
Need Help?
Union County Tourism staff is available to answer questions about lodging tax, registration, or promoting your property. Whether you’re already hosting or just getting started, we’re here to help. Please reach out to Karen Eylon at keylon@unioncounty.org
Thank you for making Union County a welcoming place to stay and a beautiful destination to discover!
Submit Event
Hosting a fun public event in Union County? Using the button below submit event details. Event will be reviewed and posted in the events section on the home page.
Naturally Crafted Campaign
Event & Special Project Grants
The Union County Tourism Grant Program was established to enhance the economic impact of tourism in our community. These grants, available to non-profit, for-profit, and municipality organizations, assist with marketing, promotion, product development, and event enhancement that increases destination appeal and enhances the visitor’s experience, resulting in increased visitation and room night generation.
Beginning in 2026, Union County Tourism has divided its grant program into two separate applications to better serve the diverse range of events that enrich our community. The standard grant will continue to support larger events that drive overnight stays and generate significant economic impact, aligning with the original intent of the program. In addition, a new second application has been created for smaller-scale events that, while not yet at the caliber of major tourism drivers, play an important role in enhancing community life and local culture. These smaller events will be eligible for support at a lower funding level, capped at $1,000. As these events grow in size and scope, organizers will be encouraged to apply through the larger event grant program.
