If you’re planning a trip to Sonoma, California, you may be wondering if vacation rentals are allowed in the area. The answer is not a simple yes or no as it depends on several factors. Let’s take a closer look at the rules and regulations surrounding vacation rentals in Sonoma.
What are Vacation Rentals
Before we dive into the legality of vacation rentals in Sonoma, let’s first define what they are. A vacation rental is a property that is rented out by its owner for short-term stays, typically less than 30 days. These can include houses, apartments, and condos that are fully furnished and equipped with amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities.
Sonoma County Rules
In Sonoma County, there are specific regulations that govern vacation rentals. The county defines a vacation rental as a dwelling unit or portion of a dwelling unit that is rented out for less than 30 days at a time.
According to the county website, “Vacation rentals are allowed only in areas zoned for commercial or mixed use. “
Permits Required
In addition to being located in commercial or mixed-use zones, vacation rentals must also obtain permits from the county before operating legally. The permit application process involves several steps, including obtaining approval from neighboring property owners and providing evidence of compliance with safety regulations such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Taxation
Another important consideration when it comes to vacation rentals in Sonoma County is taxation. Owners of vacation rental properties must collect Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on each rental transaction and pay it to the county on a monthly basis.
Sonoma City Rules
If you’re planning to rent a vacation property within the city limits of Sonoma, there are additional regulations to be aware of. The city defines a vacation rental as “a dwelling unit or portion thereof that is rented out more than 3 times in a calendar year for less than 30 consecutive days per rental period.”
Similar to the county regulations, vacation rentals within Sonoma city limits must obtain permits from the city before operating legally. The permit application process involves providing evidence of compliance with safety regulations and obtaining approval from neighboring property owners.
Vacation rental owners within Sonoma city limits are also required to collect TOT and pay it to the city on a monthly basis.
Conclusion
In summary, vacation rentals are allowed in Sonoma County and within the city limits of Sonoma but must adhere to specific regulations and obtain permits before operating legally. As a traveler, it’s important to ensure that any vacation rental you book has obtained all necessary permits and is compliant with safety regulations. By doing so, you can enjoy your stay in Sonoma without any legal complications.