Are Vacation Rentals Allowed in Carmel CA?

By Michael Ferguson

If you are planning a vacation in Carmel, California, you may be wondering if vacation rentals are allowed in the area. The short answer is – it depends.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, also known as simply Carmel, is a quaint coastal town located in Monterey County. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and scenic views.

Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, there has been an increasing demand for vacation rentals in the area. However, local regulations have been put in place to control the use of such properties.

The Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Carmel has a Short-Term Rental Ordinance that regulates the use of properties for short-term rentals. This ordinance requires property owners to obtain permits before renting their homes for less than 30 days at a time.

The ordinance includes specific requirements that must be met by property owners before they can receive their permit. Some of these requirements include having adequate parking spaces on the property and paying transient occupancy tax (TOT).

Types of Permits

There are two types of permits available for short-term rentals in Carmel – type A and type B.

Type A permits are granted to properties that have an owner or manager living on-site during the rental period. These permits are limited to one rental per week and no more than 70 nights per year.

Type B permits are granted to properties that do not have an owner or manager living on-site during the rental period. These permits are limited to one rental per month and no more than 30 nights per year.

The Penalty for Non-Compliance

Property owners who fail to comply with the Short-Term Rental Ordinance may face penalties such as fines or revocation of their permit.

It’s important to note that short-term rentals are not allowed in some areas of Carmel such as the downtown area and the Golden Rectangle neighborhood. Property owners must also abide by noise regulations and other local laws.

Conclusion

In summary, vacation rentals are allowed in Carmel, but property owners must obtain the necessary permits and comply with local regulations. The Short-Term Rental Ordinance helps to ensure that vacation rentals do not disrupt the quality of life for permanent residents in the area.

If you are planning a stay in Carmel, make sure to research your rental property thoroughly and confirm that it is compliant with local laws. This will help to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable vacation for all parties involved.