Short-Term Rental Regulations — California
Hosts in Palm Springs must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $1084, renewable Annual. Palm Springs allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, giving investors and property managers more flexibility. There is no annual day cap on rentals in Palm Springs. An occupancy tax of 11.5% applies to all short-term rental income. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit this tax automatically.
Day Limit Notes
Limited to 36 unhosted stays per calendar year. Homesharing (owner present) has no stay limit.
⚠ Tax Notes
11.5% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) plus TBID assessment if applicable.
⚠ Prohibited Zones
Total neighborhood density cap of 20% for vacation rentals. New permits subject to this cap.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Palm Springs?
Yes. Palm Springs requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $1084 and must be renewed Annual. You must obtain this permit before listing your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms.
What is the occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Palm Springs?
Short-term rentals in Palm Springs are subject to a 11.5% occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts — you do not need to handle it separately. 11.5% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) plus TBID assessment if applicable.
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in Palm Springs?
Yes. Palm Springs allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, meaning you can list investment properties or second homes that you do not personally occupy.
How many days per year can I rent my property in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs does not impose an annual day cap on short-term rentals. You can rent your property for as many days as you choose, subject to other local regulations. Limited to 36 unhosted stays per calendar year. Homesharing (owner present) has no stay limit.
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in Palm Springs?
Yes. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit the 11.5% occupancy tax in Palm Springs on behalf of hosts. You do not need to separately collect or remit this tax — it is handled at the platform level.
Are there any prohibited zones for short-term rentals in Palm Springs?
Yes. Palm Springs prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: Total neighborhood density cap of 20% for vacation rentals. New permits subject to this cap.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Palm Springs?
Yes. Palm Springs requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city. This is separate from any permit requirement and typically involves providing property information and contact details to the local authority.
Official Source
Palm Springs City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.