Short-Term Rental Regulations — California
Hosts in San Diego must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $1000, renewable Every 2 years. San Diego allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, giving investors and property managers more flexibility. There is no annual day cap on rentals in San Diego. An occupancy tax of 10.5% applies to all short-term rental income. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit this tax automatically.
Day Limit Notes
Tier 3 & 4 (whole home) capped at 1% of housing stock. Tier 2 (part-time) limited to 90 days if host is absent.
⚠ Tax Notes
10.5% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT).
⚠ Prohibited Zones
Tier 3 permits are subject to a citywide cap and lottery system.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in San Diego?
Yes. San Diego requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $1000 and must be renewed Every 2 years. 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 San Diego?
Short-term rentals in San Diego are subject to a 10.5% occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts — you do not need to handle it separately. 10.5% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT).
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in San Diego?
Yes. San Diego 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 San Diego?
San Diego 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. Tier 3 & 4 (whole home) capped at 1% of housing stock. Tier 2 (part-time) limited to 90 days if host is absent.
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in San Diego?
Yes. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit the 10.5% occupancy tax in San Diego 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 San Diego?
Yes. San Diego prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: Tier 3 permits are subject to a citywide cap and lottery system.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in San Diego?
Yes. San Diego 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
San Diego City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.