Current Airbnb Laws and Regulations in Northern California

Berkley, California Airbnb Regulations

New Eligibility Rules for Short-Term Rentals

The City of Berkley has strict eligibility on who can and cannot rent out a short-term rental (STR). They declare that hosts CAN list their properties as a STR if: the home is your primary residence or approved by the property owner if you are a tenant, are covered in liability insurance of $1 million, and are located within an approved zoning district.  

However, hosts CANNOT STR their unit if it was built after April 1, 2017, it has been used as a long-term rental since April 1, 2017, and/or is a below market-rate unit. Hosts are also not eligible if they have had a no-fault eviction in the last five years or don’t comply with the requirements of the Berkely Housing Code.  

What hosts will need in order to apply:  

• Proof of Ownership: Proof of ownership of the property or property owner approval (I.e., deed, signed property owner agreement form, or a property tax bill) 
• Proof of Residency: Three forms of proof of residency 
• Zoning Certificate: Complete a short-term rental zoning certificate 
• Taxes and Fees: Non-refundable fee and monthly Transient Occupancy Tax 
• Guest Requirements: A list of requirements for guests to follow 

Oakland, California Vacation Rental Laws

Understanding Oakland’s Short-Term Rental Rules 

Oakland does not currently have a dedicated short-term rental ordinance. The city acknowledges that its municipal and planning codes do not specifically address short-term residential rentals (STRRs) such as Airbnb or VRBO. However, hosts must comply with Oakland’s Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) requirements and general housing regulations. 

• Definition of Short-Term Rental: STRs in Oakland are generally defined as stays of 30 consecutive days or less under Oakland’s TOT rules. 
• Licensing: Oakland does not have formal STR categories or eligibility rules. Hosts should confirm zoning and housing compliance before operating. However, operators must register for and remit TOT to the city’s Revenue Bureau. 
• Taxes: Oakland imposes a 14% Transient Occupancy Tax on rentals of 30 days or less. The tax must be collected from guests and remitted to the city. 
• More Information: For details on TOT and updates on STR regulations, visit the City of Oakland STR page. n a waiting list. 

Pacifica, California STR Laws

Understand Vacation Rental Rules in Pacifica, CA 

Following a unanimous City Council vote on July 14, 2025, Pacifica adopted a strong STR ordinance to limit whole-home rentals and preserve neighborhood character. The ordinance will take effect for new permits immediately, for existing non-coastal permits on October 31, 2025, and requires Coastal Commission approval for coastal-area rentals. 

• Licensing & Registration: Using Pacifica’s Short-Term Rental Portal, hosts must submit a STR application, obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit and a Business License, plus sign a Safety Declaration. Permits cost approximately $1,664/year and apply to new applications immediately. New permits will only be issues with the 150-STR cap has not been reached; if the cap is full, applicants will be placed on a waiting list. 
• Insurance: Hosts must prove STR liability insurance coverage, like Proper Insurance, during the permit application. 
• Zoning & Use: STRs must be in allowable residential zones and can only operate from the primary residence of the host. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and detached structures are not permitted, and advertising short-term rentals for events or parties is strictly prohibited. 
• Duration Limits: Current rules allow up to 90 nights per year for whole-home Pacifica short-term rentals. 
• Occupancy Limits: Hosts must follow one group per stay policy, aligned with occupancy rules—no large group or party rentals. 
• Parking: Hosts must provide off-street parking, typically one space per rented bedroom, to comply with zoning requirements. STRs must not cause parking spillover onto lawns or sidewalks. 
• Noise: All Pacifica hosts must adhere to the City’s existing noise ordinances, which prohibit disturbances at any hour. While no formal decibel threshold is specified, enforcement is complaint-based and can lead to penalties or permit denial. 
• Point of Contact: 
  The city requires a local 24/7 contact person reachable during stays. Guests must receive clear instructions about neighborhood rules—especially parking, noise, and occupancy limits. 
• Safety: Airbnbs in Pacifica must meet and maintain building and safety norms (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers, etc.).  
• Taxes: Hosts must collect and remit a 15% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on rental revenue. Many platforms do this automatically, but hosts should verify tax compliance. It’s noted that Airbnb does not collect the Pacifica Tourism Marketing District (PTMD) fee on behalf of STR operators.  
• Enforcement & Penalties: STR violations may lead to permits not renewed, fines, or disqualification under platform liabilities and housing code enforcement. 
• More Information: Learn more about the Pacifica Short-Term Rental Program for updated resources and information. 

San Francisco, California Airbnb Laws

Understanding San Francisco’s Short-Term Rental Rules 

San Francisco’s short-term rental regulations are governed by the Short-Term Residential Rental Ordinance and enforced by the Office of Short-Term Rentals. These rules apply to rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days and were first adopted in 2014, with updates continuing through 2022. The ordinance sets strict requirements for registration, residency, operating standards, and taxes. 

• Definition of Short-Term Rental: STRs are defined as residential units rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days. 
• Licensing: Hosts must obtain both a Business Registration Certificate and a Short-Term Rental Registration Certificate through the Office of Short-Term Rentals. Registration costs $925 for two years and requires proof of residency, insurance, and compliance with safety standards. Certificates are valid for two years.  
• Host Requirements: Only permanent San Francisco residents may operate short-term rentals. A permanent resident is someone who lives and sleeps in the unit at least 275 nights per calendar year and has occupied the unit for at least 60 consecutive nights before applying. Hosts may only offer one residential unit for STR use. 
• Zoning: Units in public housing, Below-Market-Rate housing, dormitories, Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) buildings, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and properties in The Presidio, Treasure Island, or Fort Mason are prohibited. See full eligibility criteria for SF short-term rentals. 
• Limitations & Requirements: Entire-home rentals (unhosted stays) are capped at 90 nights per year. Hosted stays (where the host is present) have no annual cap. Sleeping quarters cannot be in outdoor areas, detached structures, vehicles, or treehouses. 
• Occupancy Limits: No more than five distinct renters may occupy the unit at the same time, regardless of reservation type. Sleeping quarters cannot be in outdoor areas, detached structures, vehicles, or treehouses. 
• Insurance: Hosts must maintain robust short-term rental liability insurance of at least $500,000 or use a hosting platform that provides equivalent coverage. 
• Taxes: Hosts must register for and remit the 14% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). A Certificate of Authority is required for tax collection. 
• Fines & Penalties: Violations can result in penalties of $484 per day per unit, escalating for repeat offenses. Cases may be referred to the City Attorney for civil or criminal action 
• More Information: For details or to apply, visit the the SF Short-term rental FAQ or the SF Office of Short-Term Rentals. 

Only specific types of dwellings are authorized to run a short-term rental. Full details and eligibility can be found on the SF Short-term rental FAQ.

San Leandro, California Vacation Rental Rules

Bans Non-Hosted Short-Term Rentals as Part of New Airbnb Laws

As of June 19, 2019, non-hosted short-term rentals are not allowed in the City of San Leandro per the new Airbnb Laws. However, hosted short-term rentals are allowed to be operated within city limits. These new restrictions come after a much-heated debate between community advocates and short-term rental owners. Hosts will also have to register and maintain good standing with the City, and only individuals can apply for permits rather than companies. 

Violation of these ordinances can result in fines of $1,000 and a misdemeanor charge carrying up to six months in jail.  

Other restrictions and requirements include: 

• Adherence to noise-minimizing regulations 
• A hosted short-term rental may not be rented out more than 180 days per calendar year 
• Payment of all local tourism taxes 

As in most cases, these ordinances allowing short-term rentals do not supersede HOA covenants or bylaws, and prospective short-term rental owners should check with local rules. While the City is not requiring proof of liability insurance, it is important for short-term renters to obtain protection given the nature of short-term rentals.

San Mateo County, California STR Laws

Enacts New Airbnb Laws Requiring Permits and Liability Insurance

San Mateo County revisited its Airbnb Laws to better maintain a balance between community concerns, government oversight, and owners. Short-term rental owners will now be required to register for a permit with the county and must comply with all transient tax codes. This permit expires every three years, giving short-term rental hosts plenty of time to adjust their business model before renewal.  

To apply for a permit from the county, the following is required: 

• A valid Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate in order to comply with all tax codes 
• Evidence of on-site parking 
• Copy of the rental or lease agreement between the owner and a prospective short-term tenant or copy of advertisement offering the short-term rental, which details the number of tenants allowed, on-site parking available, trash and recycling information, and noise ordinances. 
• Proof of liability insurance for short-term rentals 

In addition, all property owners and residents of neighboring properties shall be given notice 10 days in advance to approve or denial of a short-term rental permit and be allowed to voice concerns. The county seeks to preserve its traditional neighborhood feeling while also allowing the organic growth of the local tourism industry.

Santa Rosa City, California Airbnb Rules

Council Approves Urgent Airbnb Laws—Permit Now Required

The Santa Rosa City Council of California approved an urgent Airbnb Law to better regulate short-term rentals. Before this short-term rental ordinance was put in place there were no regulations regarding rentals of residential properties for a period of 30 days or less, AKA vacation rentals.  With the rise of public complaints and around 160 vacation rentals operating illegally, addressing the situation was in the public’s best interest.  

Short-term rentals will now be required to register with the city in addition to other requirements ranging from taxes to providing information to guests. In order to apply for a permit with the city, owners will need to provide the contact details of a local contact or of the owner, a site plan detailing the parking situation, a floor plan showing the location of all fire and carbon monoxide alarms, and occupancy limits.

In order to operate, the following will need to be adhered to:

• Adherence to noise code, including quiet hours from 9:00 pm to 8:00 am and a prohibition on outdoor speaker systems 
• Disclosure of video and audio recording devices to guests 
• Prohibition on large events and functions 
• Inclusion of information on online advertisements such as the maximum number of guests, number of dedicated parking spaces, and the short-term permit.

Sonoma County, California Airbnb Laws

Now Requires Adherence to Noise and Other Ordinances as Part of New Airbnb Laws 

Airbnb laws in Sonoma County, California are continuing to develop as tourism rises post-pandemic. In addition to requiring all short-term rentals to obtain an operational permit, there are now several requirements owners must follow in order to operate. These include but are not limited to: 

• Point of Contact: A certified property manager must be available 24/7 to address any complaints or concerns from tenants and neighbors. 
• Fire Safety: Adherence to fire codes, including the use of fire pits. In instances where fire pits are not permitted due to wildfire risk or other city ordinances, hosts are required to provide such information to guests. 
• Pets & Noise: If pets are allowed in the short-term rental, they are to be secured on the property. Excessive barking or noise by unattended pets is not permitted. Amplified noise is not allowed at any time.
• Taxes: Payment of all transient tax codes 
• Posting of vacation rental permits within the rental and notification of neighbors 

During the permit application process, owners are required to submit documentation on the maximum number of overnight guests, day guests, total guestrooms, and on-site parking available. All of this information, as well as specific noise limits, can be found on the Sonoma County website. 

South Lake Tahoe, California STR Laws

Short-Term Rentals Now Permitted in South Lake Tahoe

In March 2025, the El Dorado County Superior Court overturned Measure T, a 2018 ordinance that restricted short-term vacation rentals (STRs) in South Lake Tahoe’s residential neighborhoods. The court found the measure’s exemption for permanent residents unconstitutional, leading to the reinstatement of prior STR regulations.  

• Licensing: Getting started with short-term rentals in South Lake Tahoe means navigating three key licensing options based on property type and usage.  
  • Vacation Home Rentals (VHRs) are for non-residential zones like the Tourist Core Area. Property owners must apply for a VHR permit, meet occupancy limits, and provide paved parking. The VHR application process involves submitting a VHR application, completing an inspection, and meeting specific requirements such as providing exterior and interior signage.  
  • Qualified Vacation Home Rentals (QVHRs) are available to permanent residents renting their primary residence for up to 30 non-consecutive days per year. QVHR applicants must prove residency, complete a property inspection, and submit a comprehensive application, including a signed declaration of compliance and proof of property tax exemption.  
  • Hosted Rentals are for homeowners or long-term tenants renting part of their primary residence while living on-site. The application process for Hosted Rentals includes submitting a Hosted Rental application and proof of primary residency, and adhering to regulations like occupancy limits, parking restrictions, and quiet hours.  

License Types for Airbnbs in South Lake Tahoe, CA

• Zoning: STRs are primarily allowed in non-residential zones such as the Tourist Core Area. Rentals outside of designated areas may be subject to stricter regulations or prohibitions. In residential areas, short-term rentals are limited to Qualified Vacation Home Rentals only, with a maximum of 30 non-consecutive rental days per year. View the South Lake Tahoe Zoning Map for more information. 
• Occupancy Limits: Occupancy limits are specified in the permit conditions, ensuring that the number of guests does not exceed the capacity deemed safe and appropriate for the property and neighborhood. 
• Parking: Adequate off-street parking must be provided, with the number of spaces determined by the property’s size and occupancy limits. Parking on unpaved surfaces or in a manner that obstructs traffic is prohibited. 
• Noise & Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are enforced between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM. Excessive noise, including outdoor spas and hot tubs with mechanical noise-producing elements. Noise violations during these hours can result in fines for both occupants and owners. For Hosted Rentals, outdoor amplified sound is prohibited at all times. 
• Trash: All STR properties are required to have bear-resistant trash containers to prevent wildlife encounters. 
• Safety & Compliance: Properties must undergo safety inspections to ensure compliance with building codes, including functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. 
• Point of Contact: Owners must designate a local contact person available 24/7 to address any issues arising during guest stays. 
• Taxes: All short-term rentals are subject to a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 12% or 14%, depending on the property’s location, along with additional fees.  
• Penalties: Violations of STR regulations can result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the nature and frequency of the offense. 
• More Information: For detailed information on permit applications and compliance requirements, visit the City of South Lake Tahoe’s Short Term Rentals page. 

During the permit application process, owners are required to submit documentation on the maximum number of overnight guests, day guests, total guestrooms, and on-site parking available. All of this information, as well as specific noise limits, can be found on the Sonoma County website.