Rustic Ridge Lodge Rental Policies & Agreement
House Rules
Rustic Ridge Lodge is our second home, so please treat it with care and respect. Major rules are highlighted here. Please read rental agreement below house rules for expanded information on these and other rules.
- Checking in and out: Check-in: 4 pm up until 12 am, Checkout 11 AM. Opportunity for early check-in or late check-out available when completing reservation online at the check-out page.
During Your Stay
- 4BR Rental: 12 guests - 8 Adults Max and remainder can be children (up to 12 people). Option to add up to 4 more adults at checkout is available but must not exceed 12 total guests. 2 BR Rental: 4 guests max. Children 2 & Under not included in occupancy counts for both rentals
- Provide a complete guest list and count via provided email after reserving.
- Pets and emotional support animals are prohibited as this is an allergy friendly cabin
- $500 Security deposit for 4 BR and $250 for 2 BR. Authorization taken 1 day before stay and expires 7 days after stay
- Quiet hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM, which breaks down to no loud music or yelling outside after 11 PM
- No parties or events - No pin drop or open parties. Cancellation of reservation and removal from premises will occur.
- Celebration weekends such as bachelor/ette, birthday, holiday, etc. need prior approval and may require further security deposit.
- No commercial photography
- No smoking of any kind inside of cabin. Ashtrays on decks available. No flicking butts off decks as it's a fire hazard: $200 find applies.
- Must follow hot tub and sauna policy for safety and as guest is financially responsible for any damage caused by misuse/neglect.
- Follow check-out procedures located on refrigerator and also in your email sent two days before check-in.
- Please ensure reserving guest is the last to leave to ensure check-out instructions are followed
Additional rules along with rules detailed above are found in the rental agreement below. You agree to the rental agreement when you book Rustic Ridge Lodge. Please let Rosalie know if you have any questions or concerns regarding the rental agreement before you book.
Rustic Ridge Lodge - Rental Agreement
This Rental Agreement governs the lodging of guests ("Guest" or "Guests") at Rustic Ridge Lodge ("Lodge" "Property" or "Cabin"), owned and managed by Rosalie ("Host," "I," "she," or "my"). Rosalie is available for inquiries; contact information will be provided upon reservation confirmation.
Preface: This agreement aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for responsible guests and maintain the integrity of the property and neighborhood. It is not intended to deter respectful travelers.
Check-in and Check-out
Check In Time: Check in time is at 4 PM on the scheduled check in day unless other plans were approved by Host in writing.
Check-out Time: Check-out time is at 11 AM on scheduled check out day unless other plans were approved by Host in writing.
Early Check-In/Late Checkout: Requests for early check-in or late check-out are accepted in advance are subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Written approval from the Host is required. See Check-out, Late Departure, and Holdover Fees below for more information.
Guest Requirements
Age Restriction: The primary Guest making the reservation must be 25 years of age or older and possess a valid government-issued identification, which will be required for booking verification and short-term rental liability insurance.
No Third-Party Bookings: Reservations made by a third party who will not be staying at the Lodge are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate termination of the booking/reservation.
Occupancy
- 4-Bedroom Lodge: Maximum occupancy is 12 guests, with up to 8 adults included in price of reservation and the remaining guests can be children. Children 2 years and under are complimentary. An additional fee of $100 for direct website and $200 for Airbnb and VRBO per adult per stay can be added for up to 2 additional adults (beyond the initial 8), not to exceed a total of 12 guests regardless of age (excluding infants). Extra adults can be paid at checkout when booking direct. VRBO and Airbnb reservations will be charged after booking. Providing a complete guest list is required. Please send a message with guest names after reserving.
- 2-Bedroom Lodge: Maximum occupancy is 4 guests. Children 2 years and under are complimentary. Providing a complete guest list is required. Please send a message with guest names after reserving.
Guest must provide a complete written list of all occupants prior to check-in. All guests staying at the Lodge must be included in the reservation. A fee of $200 per person per night will be assessed for any undisclosed overnight guest(s). Occupancy is guaranteed only for confirmed reservation dates and when payment is made in full. Guest agrees to leave lodge on check-out day and check-out time agreed to in reservation details.
Undisclosed Daytime Guests: Daytime visitors not listed on the reservation are prohibited without prior written approval. A $200 fee per unregistered daytime guest per day will be assessed.
Parties & Events
Celebratory gatherings (including bachelor/ette, bride/groom/bridal party stays, and birthdays) require prior written approval and must strictly adhere to occupancy limits, guest registration policies, and house rules. The Host prohibits "parties," defined as open-invite gatherings, unauthorized visitors, and/or any activity that disturbs the community—including excessive noise and parking violations.
Violation Policy: Guest agrees that any breach of this policy will result in the immediate cancellation of the reservation without a refund. The Guest and all visitors must vacate the property no later than 1 hour after being notified of violating policy. See Check-out, Late Departure, and Holdover Fees for any and all fees that apply if Guest is not off property after 1 hour. Guest remains liable for all physical damages, professional cleaning costs, a $100 administrative fee, and a $200 fee per unauthorized guest at the property.
Pets
No pets or emotional support animals (ESAs) are permitted on the property due to family allergies and the Lodge being designated as an allergen-friendly environment.
Violation Policy: Unauthorized pets will incur a $500 fee per animal plus additional cleaning/allergy abatement costs. Guest agrees that violating the no pets or ESA policy may lead to immediate termination of the reservation without refund and guest removal from property no later than 1 hour after being notified of violating policy. Note: Hocking County does not have special provisions for ESAs.
Security & Monitoring
For the safety of guests and the Lodge, external security cameras that record video and audio on motion are active during your stay. Recordings are not accessed except for check-in, check-out, and at times when security is a concern. Cameras include: 1) A doorbell camera with a view of the front porch. 2) A spotlight camera overseeing the driveway.
Additionally, A Minut device continuously monitors the internal environment for temperature, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, tobacco and marijuana use, and decibel levels. Tampering with or disabling any of these devices is strictly prohibited.
Violation Policy: Guest agrees that tampering with any security device will result in immediate termination of the reservation without refund and removal from the Lodge no later than 1 hour after being notified of violating policy.
Smoking
Indoor Smoking Prohibited: Smoking of any substance (tobacco, marijuana, e-cigarettes, vaping, etc.) is strictly prohibited inside the Lodge to maintain an allergen-friendly environment. Smoking is permitted on outdoor decks or by the fire pit.
Violation Policy: Guest agrees that evidence of indoor smoking will result in a $200 administrative fee plus professional smoke abatement fees. Disposing of cigarette butts off the decks is a fire hazard and prohibited; a $200 safety/cleaning fee will be assessed for butts found outside designated ashtrays or the sand bucket at the fire pit.
Hot Tub
Guest agrees to follow all posted rules. Maximum occupancy is 7 people. Exceeding this limit may cause damage. Guests are responsible for any damage to the hot tub due to misuse, including water displacement. Ensure the water level is just below the neck jets. Refill using the provided hose and spigot. Showering before entering and using designated hot tub towels is required. Bubble bath, fragrances, soaps, and oils are prohibited. Glass and smoking are strictly prohibited in or around the hot tub. Do not sit, stand, or lay on the hot tub cover (replacement cost $500 or more). To maintain water quality, use the provided oxidizer (combination lock 000) after each use. Stays longer than 3 days include complimentary water cleaning and balancing. The bromine/mineral floater should remain in the tub for sanitization. Bathing suits may fade or stain; rinse immediately after use. The Host is not liable for any injuries or damages resulting from hot tub use. Children must not be left unattended. Please adhere to posted hot tub rules.
Violation Policy: Guest agrees to a $100 cleaning fee if the hot tub is excessively dirty from foreign materials such as but not limited to: perfumes, lotions, soaps, spray/lotion self-tanner, feces, trash and oils. A $200 fee for broken glass or smoking debris in or around the hot tub also applies. And a $10 fee for bleached/damaged bath towel use instead of designated hot tub towel.
Sauna
Maximum occupancy is 2 people. Follow all posted rules for your safety. Glass of any kind and smoking of any substance are strictly prohibited and comes with a cleaning/abatement and administrative fee of $1,000.
Noise
Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Please be respectful of neighbors; outdoor noise (music, voices, activity) should be minimized after 10:00 PM. If authorities are called due to noise complaints past 10 PM, Guest agrees that it may result in immediate termination of Guest reservation without refund.
Heating & Cooling
If extreme temperature settings are used (below 50°F for AC or above 80°F for heat), the thermostat may be locked to a range of 63-75°F during your stay. Contact Rosalie to discuss resetting. The HVAC system will turn off after 15 minutes of registering open doors and/or windows. This prevents excess usage of electricity. The HVAC system will come online again after windows and door are closed.
Replacement/Cleaning Fee
To prevent stains on fabrics, please eat and drink in designated dining areas. Damage to bedding, furniture, linens, or other fabrics may incur a replacement or additional cleaning fee. Use hot tub towels for the hot tub to avoid a $10 fee per damaged bath towel.
Illegal Substances & Activity
No Illegal Substances: Guest agrees not to have Illicit substances on the premises. Discovery of illicit substances will result in immediate termination of the reservation without refund and immediate departure. Evidence found before, during, or after the stay may result in a $500 fee for cleaning and administrative tasks and a police report of illegal substances.
No Illegal Activity: Any criminal activity (cyber or in person) is strictly prohibited in the Lodge or on the property. Discovery of such will result in immediate termination of the reservation without refund and immediate departure. Evidence found before, during, or after the stay may result in a $500 administrative fee and a police report of illegal activity.
Electricity Use
No Crypto Mining or Abuse of Electricity Usage: Crypto mining is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate cancellation of reservation without refund and forfeiture of deposit and/or $500 fine and additional cost of electricity will be billed antecedently. Additionally, any abuse of electricity used during Guest stay will be charged to Guest antecedently. Examples include placing air conditioner on extremely low temperatures (0 to 65 degrees F) or placing heater on high temperatures (75 to 100 degree F), or leaving the door open for more than 15 minutes when heat or AC is on.
Firearms, Hunting, Fireworks
No Undisclosed Firearms: Guests intending to bring firearms must notify the Host in advance, detailing the type, storage location, security measures, and plans for removal upon departure. Failure to disclose firearms will result in a $500 administrative fee. Online travel agencies may also impose additional penalties. If a firearm is found after departure, pickup will be at the Hocking County Sheriff's Office in Logan, Ohio.
No Hunting, Gun Sports, or Fireworks: Discharging firearms and fireworks are prohibited on the property. Hunting, paintball, air guns, BB guns, and target shooting are strictly prohibited. Damage to property will result in a $500 administrative fee and/or the cost of repair/replacement, whichever is greater.
ATVs
No ATV Use on Property: ATVs may be stored on trailers, but operation on the property is not permitted. Towing vehicles and trailers must remain on gravel surfaces; driving or towing on grass is prohibited. Guests are responsible for any property damage resulting from ATV storage, towing, or use.
Payment
- 50% of the total rental fee is due at the time of booking.
- The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to arrival for website rental and 14 days prior to arrival for VRBO rentals.
- Airbnb has their own policy. Check their website.
- Full payment is required before check-in. Non-payment will result in cancellation and door code rescission.
- If payment is declined during the stay, the stay will be terminated immediately, and the Guest will be liable for any outstanding balance and any other fees accrued for their stay.
- A security deposit pre-authorization of $500.00 will be held 1 day before arrival and released 7 days after departure for website and VRBO reservations. Deposit amount is subject to change and Guest will be notified in advance of any changes.
Refunds
Cancellation Policy
- 100% of paid prepayments refundable when canceled 30 days or more before arrival minus credit card processing fees.
- 50% of paid prepayments refundable when canceled 14 to 29 days before arrival minus credit card processing fees for website direct bookings and VRBO. Check Airbnb for their cancellation policy.
- 0% of paid prepayments refundable if canceled thereafter with only cleaning fee refunded minus credit card processing fees.
At Host Discretion: If Guest cancels in the 0% cancellation policy window and if Guest cancelled dates are rebooked by a new guest, Guest will receive a refund equal to the lesser of (a) the amount paid by the new guest for the rebooked dates, or (b) the amount Guest originally paid. With either option, a 10% rebooking administration fee of the refund amount and all credit card processing fees associated with the original Guest reservation will apply. At Host Discretion: If Guest cancels in the 0% cancellation policy window and if Guest cancelled dates are rebooked by a new guest, Guest will receive a refund equal to the lesser of (a) the amount paid by the new guest for the rebooked dates, or (b) the amount Guest originally paid. With either option, a 10% rebooking administration fee of the refund amount and all credit card processing fees associated with the original Guest reservation will apply.
Circumstantial Refunds: No refunds will be provided for guest illness, weather conditions, or early departures. Guests are advised to purchase travel insurance. The Host is not responsible for utility/service disruptions or Acts of God. Additionally, no refunds will be granted for encounters with wildlife inside or outside the cabin. The Host takes preventative measures against all foreseeable pests.
Check-out, Late Departure, and Holdover Fees
Check-Out Time: Check-out time is 11:00 AM on the check-out date. Guest is responsible for complying with all check-out procedures as provided by the Host.
- Cleaning Standby Fee (11:15 AM - 1:00 PM): Our professional cleaning crew is scheduled to arrive promptly at 11:15 AM. If the Lodge is still occupied the Guest will be assessed a Cleaning Standby Fee of $100.00. This fee covers the crew's idle time until 1:00 PM and the administrative cost of rescheduling services.
- Tiered Per Diem Structure (After 1:00 PM): If the Lodge remains occupied after 1:00 PM on check-out date without prior written approval from the Host, the occupancy becomes unauthorized. Guest agrees to the following per diem (daily) charges:
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: A fee of $250.00 will be charged.
- After 2:00 PM: The full daily Holdover Rate of two hundred percent (200%) of the then-current nightly rental rate, plus the daily Utility Holdover Surcharge of $75.00, will be charged for each day or portion of a day the Guest remains in possession.
- Actual and Consequential Damages: These fees are a good faith estimate of damages incurred but do not limit the Host's right to pursue actual damages in court if the holdover results in greater losses (e.g., compensating an incoming guest for canceled plans or hotel stays). See Holdover, Damages, and Utilities section below.
Check-Out Procedures:
- Remove all items in refrigerator (except water dispenser). Remember to clean out storage containers and place in dishwasher.
- Load and start the dishwasher.
- Ensure countertops, microwave, stovetop, and oven are free of dishes, trash, and large food debris. Wipe out cast iron cookware and leave it on the stove (do not put in the dishwasher).
- Gather all trash (indoor and outdoor, including decks/patios and fire pit) and place it in trash bags. Trash bags are in cabinet under kitchen sink.
- Place all bagged trash in outdoor receptacle located on back deck and secure the lids. A $75 fee applies if trash is not bagged and/or lids are not secured. Extra bags of trash can be placed in trash receptacles by the entrance to the Lodge by the road.
- separate hot tub towels and place in bathtubs/showers and place bathroom towels in hampers, hooks, or on bathroom floors.
- Ensure hot tub and ping pong table covers are in place.
- Lock all doors and windows.
Please Note: A $35.00 per hour excessive cleaning fee will be applied for requiring additional cleaning due to failure to follow these procedures or being left excessively dirty. Photographic evidence may be provided. Please inform the Host of any accidental breakage or malfunctions before departure. Prompt checkout is appreciated. Door codes will be deactivated approximately 15 minutes after the scheduled departure time.
Equipment & Furnishings
Any equipment, mechanical, or furniture malfunctions must be reported immediately. Guests are financially responsible for damages resulting from negligence or failure to report issues. This includes, but is not limited to, observable water leaks, appliance failures, and observable faulty wiring. Guests grant the Host the right to enter the Lodge to address reported issues. The Host will make repairs promptly and will provide 24-hour notice for non-emergency maintenance, unless immediate access is required for safety. Guests are responsible for any damage to equipment or furnishings due to misuse and/or neglect.
Linens & Supplies
Bed, kitchen, and bath linens, along with kitchenware and utensils, are provided. Excessive damage beyond normal wear and tear (large stains, severe tears, holes, burns, deliberate misuse or neglect, etc.) will result in a replacement fee.
Fireplaces
Wood-burning fireplaces are available for use between October 16th to April 14th. Fireplaces are not to be used between April 15th and October 15th. When in use, the flue must be open, and fires must never be left unattended. Guests are prohibited from cutting wood on the premises. Two bundles of firewood are provided inside; additional firewood for outdoor use is located in the plastic storage box near the fire pit. Outdoor firewood (pine) must not be used indoors due to creosote content.
Water
The Lodge uses well water, which was tested and safe for drinking in July 2023. A water filtering carafe is provided in the refrigerator. Guests may bring bottled water if preferred.
Cell Service
Cell service is generally good but not guaranteed. Verizon and T-Mobile tend to have better reception. Wi-Fi calling is available via the guest Wi-Fi network.
WIFI and TV
Wi-Fi is available but may not be as strong as in metropolitan areas. No refunds will be given for poor Wi-Fi signals.
Damage to Personal Property
The Host has provided locks on all windows and external doors. Guests are responsible for securing their personal belongings. The Host is not liable for damage or theft of any personal property or vehicles. A lockable gate and external security cameras are provided as a deterrent. In the event of theft, the Host will provide video footage and assistance.
Items Left Behind
Items found at the Lodge will be stored for 30 days. The Host will attempt to contact guests regarding left items. Return shipping costs plus a $15 handling fee will apply. After 30 days, items will be donated.
Holdover, Damages, and Utilities
Guest has no right to retain possession of the Lodge or any portion thereof beyond the agreed-upon departure date and time. If Guest fails to vacate and surrender possession by the Surrender Date, the following shall apply:
- Holdover Fee: Guest shall pay a holdover fee equal to two hundred percent (200%) of the then-current nightly rental rate for each day (or portion thereof) Guest remains in possession after the Surrender Date.
- Utility Holdover Surcharge: In addition to the Holdover Fee, Guest shall be liable for a flat Utility Holdover Surcharge of $75.00 per day.
- Actual & Consequential Damages: Guest is liable for all financial losses resulting from the holdover, including but not limited to:
- Refunds, credits, or relocation costs paid to succeeding guests whose reservations were canceled or delayed due to Guest's holdover.
- Costs of professional cleaning, sanitization, or repairs required due to the unauthorized stay.
- All reasonable attorney fees, filing fees, and court costs incurred by Host to regain possession through the formal legal process.
Indemnification and Waiver
While the Host maintains the Lodge with utmost care and prioritizes guest safety, all guests are responsible for their own actions and agree to indemnify and hold the Host harmless from any accidents or occurrences on the premises.
By reserving Rustic Ridge Lodge through this website, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this Rental Agreement. No signature is required.
Revised 12/29/25