Are Short Term Vacation Rentals Allowed in San Diego?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a short-term vacation in San Diego, you may be wondering whether short-term vacation rentals are allowed. The answer is yes, but with some restrictions and regulations.

What are Short-term Vacation Rentals?

Short-term vacation rentals refer to the renting out of an entire dwelling unit or a portion of it for less than 30 consecutive days. This type of rental is typically facilitated through online platforms such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO.

The Regulations on Short-term Vacation Rentals in San Diego

In San Diego, short-term vacation rentals are regulated by the city’s Municipal Code. According to these regulations, short-term vacation rentals are allowed in residential zones but with some restrictions.

Restrictions on Whole-home Rentals

Whole-home rentals (where the owner vacates the property during the rental period) are only allowed in Mission Beach and the coastal zone that includes La Jolla and Pacific Beach. In other residential areas of San Diego, whole-home rentals are not permitted.

Restrictions on Home-sharing

Home-sharing (where the owner remains on-site during the rental period) is allowed in all residential areas of San Diego. However, there are some restrictions that hosts must comply with:

  • The host must obtain a permit from the city before renting out their property.
  • The host must pay transient occupancy tax (TOT) to the city.
  • The host must comply with safety and health regulations.
  • The host must provide their guests with information regarding local noise ordinances and parking restrictions.

Penalties for Non-compliance

If hosts fail to comply with these regulations, they may face penalties such as fines or legal action from the city. In addition, guests who stay at non-compliant rentals may be forced to leave the property and could potentially lose their booking fees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, short-term vacation rentals are allowed in San Diego but with some restrictions and regulations. Hosts must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties, and guests should ensure they are booking a compliant rental to avoid losing their booking fees.

So, if you’re planning a short-term vacation in San Diego, be sure to do your research before booking your accommodation. With the right information, you can have a safe and enjoyable stay in this beautiful city.