Chapter 9.56
TRANSIENT REGISTRATION
Sections:
9.56.030 Required identification.
9.56.070 Unlawful to occupy room without registering.
9.56.010 Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the terms “hotel,” “occupancy,” “operator,” “person,” “rent,” and “transient” are as defined in BMC 3.24.020. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.020 Registration.
Every operator of a hotel in the city of Benicia shall, from and after the adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter, maintain a register in which all transients shall enter the following information in a legible and organized fashion:
A. The true name(s) and address(es) of all persons taking occupancy;
B. The make, model, year, license plate number and state of registration of any automobile, trailer or other vehicle being used during their occupancy; or provide a parking permit to be displayed on the dash area of the vehicle while parked on the premises. Hotels with pay parking or event centers are exempt from this requirement;
C. The correct day, month and year in which the information was entered into the register or hotel database; and
D. The room(s) identification number to be occupied by such person(s). It shall be unlawful for any operator of a hotel in the city of Benicia to refuse or neglect to comply with the requirements set forth in this chapter. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.030 Required identification.
The operator providing the hotel accommodations, as specified in BMC 9.56.020, shall require photographic identification to be presented upon registration that is sufficient to confirm the identity of the transient(s) taking occupancy, and shall set forth in the register the type of identification so presented. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.040 Period of retention.
All of the information received and set forth in the hotel register or database pursuant to the provisions outlined in BMC 9.56.020 shall be kept on site and in an accessible area for a period of not less than one year by the operator. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.050 False information.
It shall be unlawful for any transient(s) taking occupancy in a hotel within the city of Benicia to use or allow the use of any name other than his or her true name in so registering. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.060 Register inspection.
Such register as described in BMC 9.56.020 shall at all times during the hours that such hotel is occupied and open for business be available for inspection by any peace officer either having reasonable suspicion of criminal activity or with the consent of the business operator. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.070 Unlawful to occupy room without registering.
It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to occupy any room or rooms as a transient or transients in any hotel without first having registered as provided by this chapter. The number of registered transients and guests of any transients shall not exceed the lawful occupancy for the room. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).
9.56.080 Room rates.
Room rates shall be posted in a prominent location in the guest rooms. Posting room rates in the reception area is strongly encouraged. Guests shall not be charged in excess of posted rates. A range of rates is acceptable.
No owner of any hotel shall charge or accept money or other consideration by an hourly rate or any rate less than that which is charged or accepted for one full day’s accommodation within any 24-hour period. No guest room shall be rented more than once in any 24-hour period. (Ord. 09-18 § 1).