What Is California Tourism Fee?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a trip to California? If so, you might have come across the term ‘California tourism fee’. In this article, we will discuss what exactly is California tourism fee and how it affects your travel plans.

What is California Tourism Fee?

California Tourism Fee or California Tourism Assessment is a fee imposed on visitors who stay in hotels, motels, and other lodging establishments in California. This fee is collected by the lodging establishments and then remitted to the state government.

Why is it imposed?

The primary purpose of imposing this fee is to promote tourism in California. The revenue generated from this fee is used by the state government to fund various tourism-related programs and activities. These programs include marketing campaigns to attract more visitors to the state, developing tourist destinations and infrastructure, maintaining historical sites, and supporting local businesses that rely on tourism.

How much is the fee?

The current rate of the California Tourism Fee is 0.5% of the total room rate charged by the lodging establishment. For example, if you stay at a hotel that charges $100 per night for a room, you will have to pay an additional $0.50 as a tourism fee.

Who has to pay this fee?

Anyone who stays at a lodging establishment in California for 30 days or fewer has to pay this fee. This includes both domestic and international visitors.

Is it mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory for all visitors who stay in lodging establishments in California for 30 days or fewer. The only exception is for those who are exempted under specific regulations such as government employees on official business or certain non-profit organizations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the California Tourism Fee may seem like an additional expense for travelers visiting the state but it plays an important role in promoting tourism and supporting the local economy. So, if you’re planning a trip to California, make sure to include this fee in your budget and enjoy all that California has to offer.