Santa Monica Short-Term Rental Regulations

New to short-term rentals? Jump to the compliance checklist →

Permit & Licensing

Home-Sharing Permit and Home-Sharing Business License

The property must be your primary residence. This means investment properties are not eligible for this permit type.

Tax Obligations

Combined rate: 17% of gross rental income.

Rental Limits

Santa Monica does not impose an annual cap on the number of nights you can rent. Each individual stay must be 30 days or fewer per stay.

Occupancy & Density Limits

lesser of 10 total people, 1 person per 200 sq ft, or 2 adults per bedroom

Zoning & Restrictions

Whole-home vacation rentals (non-owner-occupied) are prohibited citywide. Only owner-occupied home-sharing is permitted. Applies to all residential zones citywide.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Second violation within 36 months: 125% of first-violation fine; third and subsequent violations within 36 months: 150% of first-violation fine

Compliance Checklist

Follow these steps to legally operate a short-term rental in Santa Monica:

1. Confirm eligibility. The property must be your primary residence. Investment properties are not eligible.
2. Apply for Home-Sharing Permit and Home-Sharing Business License. Submit application + $100 fee.
3. Register for tax accounts. Set up hotel occupancy tax accounts with the city tax authority.
4. Collect and remit taxes. 17% on all bookings.
5. Renew annually. $50 renewal fee.