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California Short-Term Rental Regulations by City

Comprehensive short-term rental guides for 124 markets in California.

46
🚫 Prohibited
37%
26
⛔ Strict
21%
44
⚠️ Moderate
35%
8
✅ Permissive
6%

🚫 Prohibited

46 markets

Anaheim

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals in Anaheim are strictly limited to approximately 277 'pre-moratorium' operators who were grandfathered in 2019. The city currently prohibits the issuance of any new STR permits. Allowed operators must follow rigid 'Good Neighbor' policies, enforce a 3-night minimum stay, and pay a 15% Transient Occupancy Tax.

Permit required
15.0% total tax

Santa Barbara

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are strictly prohibited in all inland residential zones in the City of Santa Barbara. They are only permitted in commercial zones or within the Coastal Zone, provided the host obtains a Coastal Development Permit and a business license.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Los Angeles County

California

Prohibited

Unincorporated Los Angeles County adopted a comprehensive Short-Term Rental ordinance in March 2024, restricting STRs to primary residences only. Hosts are limited to 90 unhosted nights per year, and the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or rent-stabilized units for STRs is strictly prohibited.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Irvine

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are strictly PROHIBITED in the City of Irvine. The city's zoning code does not list STRs as a permitted use in any residential zone, and the city actively enforces this ban against hosts and platforms.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Laguna Beach

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals in Laguna Beach are strictly regulated and currently prohibited in almost all residential neighborhoods due to a long-standing moratorium and zoning restrictions. Permits are primarily available only in commercial and mixed-use zones, and hosts must collect and remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax monthly.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Manhattan Beach

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays of less than 30 consecutive days) are strictly prohibited in all residential zones within the City of Manhattan Beach. This ban was upheld by the California Supreme Court and applies to both hosted and unhosted rentals.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Eastvale

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are PROHIBITED in the City of Eastvale per Municipal Code Section 120.04.160. The city defines short-term rentals as any stay of 30 consecutive calendar days or less and actively enforces this ban with fines up to $5,000 per violation.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Pasadena

California

Prohibited

Pasadena requires all short-term rental hosts to obtain a permit and exclusively allows 'Home-Sharing' in the host's primary residence. Unhosted rentals are capped at 90 days per year, while hosted rentals (where the host is on-site) have no annual night limit.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Carmel-by-the-Sea

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals of less than 30 consecutive days are strictly PROHIBITED in all residential zones of Carmel-by-the-Sea per Municipal Code Section 17.08.060. Only traditional lodging like hotels and authorized B&Bs in commercial districts may legally operate transient stays.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Hermosa Beach

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are PROHIBITED in all residential zones in the City of Hermosa Beach per Municipal Code Section 17.40.100. Any rental for a period of less than 30 consecutive days is considered an illegal use, and the city aggressively enforces this with daily fines starting at $2,500.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Oakland

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are currently not a permitted use in the City of Oakland's residential zoning districts, although the city is in the process of developing a formal regulatory framework. Despite the lack of a permit system, hosts are legally required to register for and remit a 14% Transient Occupancy Tax to the Finance Department.

0.1% total tax

Healdsburg

California

Prohibited

Healdsburg strictly prohibits entire-home 'Vacation Rentals' in all residential zoning districts. Only 'Home-Sharing'—where the owner remains on-site in their primary residence—is permitted, and it requires a costly and lengthy Minor Conditional Use Permit process.

Permit requiredPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Half Moon Bay

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are permitted in Half Moon Bay only in a host's primary residence, where they must reside at least 275 days per year. Unhosted rentals (where the host is not present) are strictly capped at 60 nights per calendar year, while hosted rentals have no annual night limit. Stays are subject to a 15% Transient Occupancy Tax and rentals in ADUs are prohibited.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Solvang

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays less than 31 days) are currently prohibited in all residential zones within the City of Solvang. The city follows a 'permissive zoning' doctrine where any use not explicitly listed as permitted is considered prohibited; since STRs are not listed in Title 11, they are not legal. The City Council is periodically discussing potential regulations, but no ordinance has been adopted as of early 2024.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

St. Helena

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are PROHIBITED in the City of St. Helena per Municipal Code Chapter 17.124. Only a very small number of 'legacy' tourist homes that existed prior to 2012 are allowed to operate; no new permits are issued.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

El Monte

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays under 30 days) are effectively PROHIBITED in the City of El Monte. The city's zoning code does not list short-term rentals, transient habitation, or home-sharing as a permitted use in any residential zone, and under permissive zoning, unlisted uses are not allowed.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

La Quinta

California

Prohibited

La Quinta currently enforces a permanent moratorium on new STVR permits in all residential zones. Permits are only available in specific areas like Tourist Commercial zones or designated HOAs (e.g., PGA West).

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Monterey

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays less than 30 consecutive days) are PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Monterey. The City does not issue permits for home-sharing or vacation rentals in residential areas and actively enforces this ban with fines up to $1,000 per day.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

West Hollywood

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays of 30 days or less) are strictly PROHIBITED in the City of West Hollywood per Municipal Code Section 5.66.020. This ban applies to all residential properties, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes, regardless of whether the host is present.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

San Diego

California

Prohibited

The City of San Diego strictly regulates short-term rentals through a tiered licensing system effective May 2023. Hosts must obtain a license for one of four tiers, with whole-home rentals (Tier 3) subject to a city-wide cap and lottery system.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Temecula

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are strictly PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Temecula incorporated limits. The City does not issue permits for rentals of less than 30 days, as they are not a permitted use under the City's permissive zoning code.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

South Lake Tahoe

California

Prohibited

South Lake Tahoe enforces one of the strictest VHR ordinances in California following the passage of Measure T. Rentals are prohibited in almost all residential zones, effectively limiting new permits to the 'Tourist Core' and commercial areas.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Santa Monica

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals of an entire home (Vacation Rentals) are strictly PROHIBITED in Santa Monica. Only 'Home-Sharing'—where the host stays on-site in the same unit as the guest—is permitted for stays under 31 days.

Permit requiredPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Temple City

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are strictly PROHIBITED in residential zones within the City of Temple City. The city operates under a permissive zoning code, and because transient lodging is not explicitly listed as a permitted use in R-1, R-2, or R-3 zones, it is deemed illegal.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Arcadia

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals and home-sharing are strictly PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Arcadia per Ordinance No. 2348. Any rental of a residential unit for a period of 30 consecutive days or less is considered an illegal commercial use of a residential property.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Artesia

California

Prohibited

The City of Artesia does not have a dedicated ordinance for short-term rentals. Under the doctrine of permissive zoning, because STRs are not explicitly listed as a permitted use in residential zones, they are generally considered prohibited. However, the city maintains a 6% Transient Occupancy Tax for all lodgings of 30 days or less.

0.1% total tax

Sonoma

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays of 30 days or less) are PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Sonoma. The city only allows such rentals if they were legally established and permitted prior to the current restrictions, and no new permits are being issued.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Yountville

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (rentals for less than 30 consecutive days) are PROHIBITED in the Town of Yountville's residential zones. The Town's permissive zoning code does not list transient habitation as an allowed use in R-1, R-2, or R-3 districts, and Section 17.116.030(D) explicitly forbids ADUs from being used for short-term occupancy.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Burbank

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals of less than 30 days are strictly prohibited in all residential zones within the City of Burbank. The city utilizes a permissive zoning model where any use not explicitly listed as permitted is banned; because STRs are not listed in the residential use tables, they are illegal.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Cerritos

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals of less than 30 days are PROHIBITED in the City of Cerritos. Under the city's permissive zoning code, uses not explicitly listed as permitted are forbidden, and the city does not recognize transient habitation as an allowed residential use.

Night limits

Calistoga

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals are PROHIBITED in the City of Calistoga residential zones. Under Zoning Code § 17.04.575, any rental of a residential unit for less than 31 consecutive days is considered an illegal transient use.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Del Mar

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (defined as stays of less than 30 consecutive days) are PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Del Mar. The city operates under permissive zoning, meaning because STRs are not explicitly listed as a permitted use, they are illegal. While the city attempted to draft regulations in recent years, those efforts were stalled by Coastal Commission requirements, and the default prohibition remains in effect and is actively enforced.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Ojai

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (stays of less than 31 consecutive days) are strictly PROHIBITED in all residential zones within the City of Ojai per Municipal Code § 10-2.805. The city aggressively enforces this ban with fines starting at $1,000 per violation.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Fontana

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (occupancies of 30 consecutive days or less) are prohibited in all residential zoning districts within the City of Fontana.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Santa Rosa

California

Prohibited

Santa Rosa strictly regulates short-term rentals by requiring permits for all hosts and effectively banning new non-hosted (unoccupied) rentals through an absolute citywide cap.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Sunnyvale

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals in Sunnyvale are permitted only as hosted stays where the primary resident remains on-site throughout the guest's stay.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Fullerton

California

Prohibited

Fullerton currently enforces a strict cap on whole-home short-term rentals and has implemented an urgency moratorium on new permits as of July 15, 2025.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Santa Clara

California

Prohibited

The City of Santa Clara requires all short-term rental operators to register for a permit, pay a significant transient occupancy tax, and follow specific night caps for unhosted stays.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.2% total tax

Berkeley

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals in Berkeley are only permitted in the host's primary residence and are limited to 14 consecutive days per stay.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Thousand Oaks

California

Prohibited

Thousand Oaks allows owner-occupied home-sharing with a land use permit while prohibiting unhosted whole-home short-term rentals in residential districts.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Mountain View

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals (STRs) are permitted in Mountain View for residential units, requiring a city business license and STR registration with an annual 60-day limit for unhosted stays.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Northridge

California

Prohibited

Northridge is governed by the City of Los Angeles Home-Sharing Ordinance, which permits short-term rentals only in a host's primary residence.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Palo Alto

California

Prohibited

Palo Alto restricts short-term rentals to primary residences with a host present, capped at 90 nights per year, and requires a 15.5% transient occupancy tax.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.2% total tax

Cupertino

California

Prohibited

Short-term rentals in Cupertino are permitted only in primary residences, require a business license and registration, and are subject to a 60-night annual limit for unhosted stays.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Rohnert Park

California

Prohibited

Rohnert Park allows only single-room short-term rentals within a primary residence; whole-house and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rentals are strictly prohibited.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Cloverdale

California

Prohibited

Cloverdale distinguishes between 'Hosted' rentals (allowed citywide with a 120-day annual limit) and 'Non-Hosted' rentals (restricted to commercial zones with a Conditional Use Permit).

Night limits
0.1% total tax

⛔ Strict

26 markets

Los Angeles

California

Strict

The City of Los Angeles requires all short-term rental hosts to register for a Home-Sharing permit and only permits the rental of one's primary residence. Stays are capped at 120 days per year unless an Extended Home-Sharing permit is obtained, and rentals in RSO-regulated buildings or newer ADUs are strictly prohibited.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Capitola

California

Strict

Short-term rentals in Capitola are strictly regulated and primarily permitted within a designated Vacation Rental Overlay District. Hosts must obtain both an STR permit and a city business license, while adhering to occupancy limits and a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Huntington Beach

California

Strict

Huntington Beach permits short-term rentals primarily in the Sunset Beach area and specific coastal zones, requiring an annual permit and a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax. Regulations strictly prohibit STRs in standard residential zones outside of these designated areas and ban the use of ADUs for short-term stays.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Luis Obispo

California

Strict

Short-term rentals are permitted in the City of San Luis Obispo subject to a specific permit and business license. Unhosted rentals (where the host does not live on-site) are capped at 90 nights per year, while hosted 'homestays' have no night limit.

Permit requiredNight limits
0.1% total tax

Morro Bay

California

Strict

The City of Morro Bay requires a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) permit, a business license, and a fire inspection for all rentals under 30 days. The city enforces a strict 11% TOT rate plus a 3% TBID assessment, and properties must adhere to specific occupancy limits and parking requirements.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Palm Springs

California

Strict

The City of Palm Springs strictly regulates vacation rentals under Chapter 5.25, requiring annual registration, safety inspections, and a one-property-per-owner limit. Unhosted rentals are capped at 36 guest stays per year, with a strict prohibition on outdoor amplified music.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Pismo Beach

California

Strict

Pismo Beach strictly regulates short-term rentals, limiting them to specific residential and commercial zones while prohibiting them in most inland residential neighborhoods and ADUs. Hosts must obtain both a business license and an STVR permit, adhere to a 10% TOT rate, and post exterior contact signage.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Paso Robles

California

Strict

Paso Robles requires a Short-Term Rental Permit and a Business License for all rentals under 30 days. The city recently increased its Transient Occupancy Tax to 12% following the passage of Measure K-24 in November 2024.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Truckee

California

Strict

The Town of Truckee strictly regulates short-term rentals with a cap on the total number of permits allowed (1,255) and a required 365-day waiting period for new property owners before they can apply. All hosts must obtain an annual certificate, pay 12% TOT plus a 2% TTBID assessment, and strictly adhere to occupancy and noise limits.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Dana Point

California

Strict

Dana Point regulates short-term rentals under a cap-based system, with a hard limit of 115 non-primary permits in the Coastal Zone. All hosts must obtain an annual permit, a business license, and remit 10% TOT quarterly regardless of zone.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Big Bear Lake

California

Strict

The City of Big Bear Lake regulates short-term rentals under Chapter 5.44, requiring an annual license, rigorous safety inspections, and a strict guest limit of 2 per bedroom plus 2. Owners are limited to 2 licenses total and must remit a 9% combined TOT and TBID tax quarterly.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Malibu

California

Strict

Short-term rentals in the City of Malibu require an annual permit and are strictly limited to the owner's primary residence. The city charges a 15% Transient Occupancy Tax and prohibits STRs in ADUs and multi-family units.

Permit requiredPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Napa

California

Strict

The City of Napa strictly regulates short-term rentals, enforcing a city-wide cap of 41 permits for non-hosted vacation rentals. Hosts must obtain an STR permit, pass a fire inspection, and remit a total tax of 13% (12% TOT + 1% NVTBID assessment).

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Jose

California

Strict

Short-term rentals are permitted in San Jose provided the property is the host's primary residence. While hosted rentals (where the owner is present) have no annual night limits, unhosted rentals are capped at 180 days per year.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence

San Clemente

California

Strict

Short-term rentals (STLUs) are strictly regulated in San Clemente under Municipal Code Chapter 3.24, requiring both a business license and a specific STLU permit. The city enforces density limits and strict operational standards, including the mandatory use of noise monitoring devices.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Francisco

California

Strict

San Francisco strictly regulates short-term rentals, requiring hosts to be permanent residents who live in their unit for at least 275 days per year. While hosted rentals (where the host is present) are unlimited, unhosted rentals are capped at 90 days per calendar year.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence

Fort Bragg

California

Strict

Fort Bragg regulates short-term rentals through a formal permit system that distinguishes between hosted and non-hosted units. All hosts must obtain an STR permit, a business license, and collect a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Sacramento

California

Strict

Short-term rentals in the City of Sacramento require an annual permit and are strictly limited to the host's primary residence. Hosts must collect and remit a 12% total tax (including a 2% Tourism Marketing District assessment) and comply with a 6-guest maximum occupancy limit.

Permit requiredPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Long Beach

California

Strict

The City of Long Beach strictly regulates short-term rentals under Chapter 5.64, requiring all hosts to register for an annual permit and prioritize primary residency. Unhosted rentals are capped at 90 days per year, while hosted rentals (where the owner is present) have no annual night limit.

Permit requiredNight limitsPrimary residence

Santa Cruz

California

Strict

Short-term rentals in the City of Santa Cruz require an annual permit and are generally limited to the host's primary residence. A 12% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) applies to all stays under 30 days, which must be reported quarterly even if platforms remit the tax.

Permit requiredPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Fremont

California

Strict

Fremont requires a no-cost short-term rental permit for primary residences only, prohibiting STRs in ADUs and affordable housing units.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Oxnard

California

Strict

Oxnard strictly regulates short-term rentals through a tiered system of homeshares and vacation rentals with significant density caps and separation requirements.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Roseville

California

Strict

Short-term rentals in Roseville are restricted to primary residences and require an annual city permit, business license, and a 10% transient occupancy tax.

Primary residence
0.1% total tax

Carpinteria

California

Strict

Carpinteria strictly regulates short-term rentals by limiting Vacation Rentals to a specific overlay district with a license cap while allowing primary residence Home Stays citywide.

Night limitsPrimary residence
0.1% total tax

Cambria

California

Strict

Cambria is an unincorporated community governed by the San Luis Obispo County Coastal Residential Vacation Rental Ordinance, which strictly limits density and ownership.

0.1% total tax

Avalon

California

Strict

The City of Avalon requires a Transient Rental License and a Business License for all short-term rentals, with a strict citywide cap of 350 residential licenses.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

⚠️ Moderate

44 markets

Mammoth Lakes

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals are heavily regulated in Mammoth Lakes and generally restricted to multi-family and resort zones (RMF-2, Resort, etc.). Hosts must obtain an STR Certificate and a Business Tax Certificate, and pay a total TOT rate of 13%. Stays of 31 days or longer are exempt from these regulations.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Mendocino County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Mendocino County (Vacation Home Rentals) require a specific VHR permit and a county business license. Hosts must collect and remit a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax on all stays of 30 days or less.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Monterey County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Monterey County are strictly regulated and require both a TOT Certificate and an Administrative or Use Permit. Regulations differ slightly between the Coastal Zone and Inland areas, with many high-demand areas like Big Sur facing caps or strict land-use restrictions.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Newport Beach

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals are permitted in Newport Beach subject to strict zoning limits, a mandatory $100 annual permit, and a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax. The city imposes a 2-night minimum stay and caps occupancy based on bedroom count up to a maximum of 10 guests.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Riverside County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Riverside County are strictly regulated under Ordinance 927. Hosts must obtain a Short-Term Rental Certificate, register for TOT, and adhere to specific occupancy formulas and noise monitoring requirements.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Nevada County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated Nevada County requires all short-term rentals to obtain an annual permit and register for Transient Occupancy Tax (10%). Regulations focus heavily on fire safety, including defensible space requirements and guest limits based on septic capacity and bedroom count.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Napa County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated Napa County has some of the strictest STR regulations in California, effectively prohibiting new vacation rentals in the majority of Agricultural and Residential zones. Permitted units are mostly limited to specific commercial zones or legally non-conforming properties that were established before current bans.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Placer County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated Placer County requires all short-term rentals (stays under 31 days) to obtain an annual STR permit and a TOT certificate. The county enforces strict occupancy limits, parking restrictions, and wildfire safety measures (defensible space).

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Encinitas

California

Moderate

The City of Encinitas requires all short-term rental hosts to obtain an annual permit and pay a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax. Regulations include a 3-night minimum stay for most units and a strict cap on occupancy based on the number of bedrooms.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Mariposa County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Mariposa County require a Vacation Rental Permit from the Planning Department and a TOT Certificate from the Treasurer-Tax Collector. The county enforces strict occupancy limits (2 per bedroom + 2) and requires a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax which platforms like Airbnb do not remit automatically.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Orange County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Orange County require an annual permit from OC Public Works and registration for a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax. Regulations strictly limit occupancy to 10 guests maximum and prohibit the use of ADUs (granny flats) built after 2017 for short-term stays.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

El Dorado County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated El Dorado County are strictly regulated under Chapter 5.56, requiring an annual Vacation Home Rental (VHR) permit and a mandatory fire inspection. The county distinguishes between the Tahoe Basin area and other unincorporated areas, with higher fees and tax rates (14%) applied within the Tahoe Basin.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Ventura County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated Ventura County requires a Planning Permit (Zoning Clearance) and a TOT Certificate for all rentals under 30 days. The county strictly prohibits STRs in ADUs and limits occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Indio

California

Moderate

Short-term vacation rentals are strictly regulated in the City of Indio under Chapter 5.44 of the Municipal Code. Hosts must obtain an annual permit, a business license, and collect a 13% Transient Occupancy Tax which must be reported monthly.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Luis Obispo County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated San Luis Obispo County requires a specialized Business License/Minor Use Permit for all rentals under 30 days. Regulations differ significantly between Coastal and Inland zones, including specific density limits and distance requirements. All hosts must collect and remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Diego County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated San Diego County require an annual STRO license ($100) and a TOT certificate. Regulations limit occupancy to 2 per bedroom + 2 (max 10) and prohibit rentals in ADUs built after 2020.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Santa Cruz County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated Santa Cruz County requires a Vacation Rental Permit for all stays under 30 days, with strict regulations in the Coastal Zone and designated 'Design Control Districts'. The total TOT rate is 14% following the passage of Measure L in 2022.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

San Bernardino County

California

Moderate

Unincorporated San Bernardino County requires a Short-Term Rental permit for stays under 30 days, primarily impacting mountain and desert communities. The program features strict occupancy limits (max 12), biennial renewals, and mandatory fire safety inspections.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Palm Desert

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Palm Desert are heavily restricted and prohibited in all single-family residential zones (R-1 and R-2). Eligible properties in multi-family or planned development zones must obtain an annual permit and remit an 11% Transient Occupancy Tax directly to the city.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Sonoma County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Sonoma County require a Vacation Rental Zoning Permit and a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax registration. Regulations are strict regarding property management, noise, and occupancy, with many areas subject to exclusion zones where new permits are prohibited.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Oceanside

California

Moderate

The City of Oceanside requires all short-term rentals (stays under 30 days) to obtain a valid STVR permit and a business license. The city enforces strict occupancy limits (max 10 guests) and prohibits STRs in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Carlsbad

California

Moderate

The City of Carlsbad permits short-term vacation rentals primarily within the Coastal Zone, requiring an annual STVR permit and a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax. Outside the Coastal Zone, new STVR operations are restricted and may be considered prohibited under current zoning interpretations.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Santa Barbara County

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Santa Barbara County are heavily regulated and restricted primarily to the Coastal Zone. Following the passage of Measure S in 2024, the tax rate for these stays has increased to 12%.

Permit required
0.1% total tax

Stockton

California

Moderate

Stockton does not have a specific short-term rental ordinance but requires a business license and transient occupancy tax registration for all operators.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Modesto

California

Moderate

The City of Modesto allows short-term rentals subject to a 120-day annual cap, mandatory transient occupancy tax registration, and participation in the city's Rental Housing Safety Program.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Elk Grove

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Elk Grove require a special business license, have a 2-night minimum stay, and are subject to a 12% transient occupancy tax.

0.1% total tax

Visalia

California

Moderate

The City of Visalia regulates short-term rentals (STRs) through a mandatory permit system that distinguishes between hosted and non-hosted units with specific density limits.

0.1% total tax

Victorville

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Victorville require a Rental Business License and are subject to a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax.

0.1% total tax

Clovis

California

Moderate

The City of Clovis regulates short-term rentals through a Home Occupation Permit and an annual business license, while enforcing a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax.

0.1% total tax

Chico

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Chico are currently regulated as 'hotels' under the municipal tax code, requiring a city business license and registration for transient occupancy taxes.

0.1% total tax

Turlock

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Turlock are permitted but require registration with the Planning Department, a city business license, and a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate.

0.1% total tax

Davis

California

Moderate

The City of Davis regulates short-term rentals through a mandatory registration program that distinguishes between host-occupied and non-host occupied units, requiring a permit and business license.

0.1% total tax

Lompoc

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Lompoc are regulated as commercial lodging businesses requiring a Business Tax Certificate and a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate.

0.1% total tax

Menlo Park

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Menlo Park require both a business license and a transient occupancy registration, with taxes increasing to 15.5% in 2026.

0.2% total tax

Twentynine Palms

California

Moderate

Twentynine Palms strictly regulates short-term rentals (Vacation Home Rentals) with a citywide cap of 500 permits and a 5-unit limit per owner.

0.1% total tax

Yucca Valley

California

Moderate

The Town of Yucca Valley regulates short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) through a mandatory permitting system, a 12% transient occupancy tax, and a citywide cap of 10% of single-family housing units.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Arcata

California

Moderate

The City of Arcata regulates short-term rentals through a Short-Stay and Vacation Rental (SSVR) permit program with a city-wide cap on non-owner-occupied units.

0.1% total tax

Joshua Tree

California

Moderate

Joshua Tree is an unincorporated community governed by San Bernardino County, which requires an annual short-term rental permit, mandatory inspections, and a 9% total transient tax.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Cayucos

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in the unincorporated coastal community of Cayucos are regulated by San Luis Obispo County through strict distance separation requirements and a monthly tenancy cap.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Gualala

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Gualala are regulated as Vacation Home Rentals by Mendocino County's Coastal Zoning Code, requiring both an administrative permit and a business license.

Night limits
0.0% total tax

Bodega Bay

California

Moderate

Bodega Bay is an unincorporated community governed by Sonoma County, which requires a multi-step permitting and licensing process, strictly prohibits rentals in ADUs, and enforces caps in specific high-density zones.

0.1% total tax

Geyserville

California

Moderate

Geyserville is an unincorporated community governed by Sonoma County's highly restrictive short-term rental regulations, featuring density caps and a strict ban on corporate ownership.

Night limits
0.0% total tax

Stinson Beach

California

Moderate

Stinson Beach is subject to Marin County's STR ordinance which mandates a specific township cap of 192 licenses and a 14% transient occupancy tax for West Marin coastal communities.

Night limits
0.1% total tax

Point Arena

California

Moderate

Short-term rentals in Point Arena are regulated by Ordinance 235, requiring a business license and limiting owners to one rental property within the city.

0.1% total tax

✅ Permissive

8 markets

Cupertino, CA

California

Permissive

Short-term rentals are currently allowed in Cupertino subject to a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax, though the city lacks a specific STR permit system.

0.1% total tax

Monrovia

California

Permissive

Monrovia does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating short-term rentals, meaning they operate under general business license and tax rules. Hosts are required to remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on all stays under 30 days and must maintain a valid city business license. It is critical to note that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are strictly prohibited from being used as short-term rentals.

0.1% total tax

Bakersfield

California

Permissive

The City of Bakersfield does not currently have a dedicated short-term rental ordinance, meaning STRs are largely unregulated regarding night caps or density. However, hosts are legally required to obtain a general Business Tax Certificate and collect/remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) for stays under 30 days.

0.1% total tax

Fresno

California

Permissive

The City of Fresno currently has no dedicated ordinance specifically regulating short-term rentals. Hosts are generally required to obtain a City Business Tax Certificate and must collect and remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on all stays under 31 days.

0.1% total tax

South Pasadena

California

Permissive

The City of South Pasadena does not have a dedicated short-term rental (STR) ordinance as of early 2024. While not explicitly prohibited in a dedicated chapter, STRs are subject to the city's 10% Transient Occupancy Tax and standard business license requirements.

0.1% total tax

Moreno Valley

California

Permissive

Moreno Valley does not have a specific short-term rental ordinance but requires a city business license and a 13% transient occupancy tax.

0.1% total tax

Santa Maria

California

Permissive

Short-term rentals in Santa Maria are regulated under general business licensing and transient occupancy tax laws rather than a dedicated STR ordinance.

0.1% total tax

Oakhurst

California

Permissive

Oakhurst is an unincorporated community regulated by Madera County, which is currently transitioning from a simple business license requirement to a comprehensive Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) ordinance.

Night limits
0.1% total tax
0.1% total tax
0.1% total tax
0.1% total tax