Step 1
Register for a Business License
Apply for a general business license through the Modesto Finance Department. You must provide a $100 deposit plus the prorated annual fee.
1-2 weeks$154
Documents needed
- Business License Application
- Photo ID
Cross-referenced against 3 official sources — municipal codes, planning-department pages, and government registries.
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.
To host a short-term rental in Modesto, you must obtain both a standard business license and a Transient Occupancy Registration Permit from the Finance Department. You are also required to register your property with the city's Rental Housing Safety Program, which includes self-certification of safety standards and potential city audits. Hosts must collect a 9% lodging tax from guests and follow local rules regarding noise, parking, and a yearly limit on rental nights.
Step-by-step guide for Modesto
Apply for a general business license through the Modesto Finance Department. You must provide a $100 deposit plus the prorated annual fee.
Register as a lodging operator to collect and remit the 9% TOT. This requires a separate deposit calculated based on estimated liability.
Register the property under the city's safety program (Ordinance 3703-C.S.) and complete the self-certification form verifying fire and life safety standards.
Regulatory information is AI-researched from public city/county codes for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Researched & verified by Learn STR at GoStudioM