Hidden Pines

SHORT-TERM RENTAL AGREEMENT & HOUSE RULES

This Short-Term Rental Agreement is entered into between Perfect Stays LLC ("Host") and the booking guest ("Guest"). By confirming this reservation, Guest acknowledges and agrees to all terms, house rules, and conditions set forth below.

1. Occupancy & Access

  • Maximum Occupancy: The property accommodates up to 8 guests (2 King beds, 1 Queen bed, 2 Twin beds). Only registered guests are permitted overnight.
  • Minimum Age: The primary booking guest must be at least 25 years of age and reside on the property for the entire duration of the stay.
  • Events & Gatherings: Parties, large social gatherings, commercial filming, and commercial photography are strictly prohibited.

2. Check-In & Check-Out

  • Check-In: 4:00 PM
  • Check-Out: 11:00 AM
  • Late Departures: Unauthorized late check-outs delay turnaround and cleaning schedules, and may incur a fee of $50 per hour.

3. Cancellation, Refunds & Travel Insurance

  • Travel Insurance Strongly Advised: Weather disruptions, road closures, chain controls, regional utility outages, flight delays, illnesses, medical emergencies, work changes, and general unforeseen circumstances can impact travel. Guests are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive independent travel insurance (including "Cancel For Any Reason" coverage) at the time of booking.
  • Refund Limitation: Host strictly adheres to the stated cancellation policy. Refunds, credits, or date adjustments will not be issued for circumstances covered by travel insurance or events outside Host’s direct control. Any claims for reimbursement must be filed through the Guest’s travel insurance carrier.

4. Security Deposit, Damages & Card Authorization

  • Security Pre-Authorization: A $500 security deposit pre-authorization is placed on Guest's credit card prior to arrival. Guest agrees to maintain the property in good order and promptly report any damages or maintenance needs upon discovery.
  • No Limitation of Liability: Guest acknowledges that the $500 pre-authorization does not represent a cap or limitation on total liability.
  • Additional Charge Authorization: In the event that damage, missing inventory, excessive cleaning requirements, or rule violations caused by Guest or Guest’s party exceed $500, Guest hereby expressly authorizes Perfect Stays LLC to charge the remaining balance directly to the credit card on file, supported by an itemized repair, replacement, or cleaning invoice.

5. Community Access, Lake Regulations & Watercraft

  • HOA Gate Entry Fee: Pine Mountain Lake is a private, gated community. The PMLA charges a mandatory vehicle access fee collected at the main gate upon arrival. This fee is paid directly to the HOA for road maintenance, community security patrol, and amenity access, and is separate from accommodation charges.
  • Strict "No Outside Boats" Rule: Per PMLA regulations and California biosecurity laws, guests and renters are strictly prohibited from launching outside watercraft of any kind (powerboats, jet skis, personal kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes) into Pine Mountain Lake. Marina boat rentals are available seasonally at the marina beach. Rental Info Here

6. Pet Policy & Rules

  • Pet Limit & Fees: A maximum of 2 well-behaved dogs is permitted, subject to prior Host approval and payment of the designated pet fee. Unauthorized pets will incur an immediate $250 non-declared pet fee plus deep-cleaning costs.
  • Furniture & Linens: Pets are strictly prohibited on beds, sofas, and indoor furniture. Please bring your own pet beds, blankets, and towels.
  • Unattended Pets: Pets must not be left unattended inside the home unless secured in a crate.
  • Leash & Waste: Due to local regulations and native mountain wildlife, pets must remain leashed at all times outdoors. Guests must immediately pick up and properly dispose of pet waste in the outdoor bear-resistant trash enclosure.
  • Pet Cleanliness: Please wipe paws prior to entry during wet, snowy, or muddy weather.

7. Fire Safety, Wildlife & Trash

  • Strict Wildfire Precautions: Located in a high fire-hazard mountain zone. No outdoor campfires, fireworks, open flames, or charcoal grills are permitted under any circumstances. Propane appliances (provided deck fire table and griddle) must be operated strictly according to posted instructions.
  • No Smoking/Vaping: Smoking, vaping, or using e-cigarettes inside the home or on exterior wooden decks is strictly prohibited ($500 remediation fee applies).
  • Active Bear Country: Groveland is an active wildlife habitat. All trash and food scraps must be securely bagged and placed directly inside the locked bear-resistant trash enclosure. Never leave food, coolers, trash, or scented items in vehicles, on decks, or outdoors.
  • Quiet Hours: Observed daily from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM to respect neighboring residents.

8. Mountain Living & Rural Utilities

  • Mountain weather conditions, winter snow, fallen branches, or regional utility disruptions (power, internet, satellite/cable) can occur beyond Host’s control and do not warrant automatic refunds.
  • During winter months, guests are required to monitor Caltrans weather advisories and carry appropriate tire chains or operate an AWD/4WD vehicle as mandated by local road and transit authorities.

9. Release and Waiver of Liability

  • Guest acknowledges that the property is situated in a rural mountain setting with natural, uneven terrain, multi-level decks/stairs, and native wildlife. Guest accepts and assumes all risks associated with the use of the property and its amenities for all members of the party and invited guests. To the fullest extent allowed by law, Guest releases, defends, and holds harmless Perfect Stays LLC, its owners, agents, and operators from any and all liability, claims, losses, injuries, or costs arising out of or related to their stay.