Is Airbnb legal in Long Beach?

In 2024, Long Beach, California, has implemented comprehensive regulations governing short-term rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb to balance the interests of property owners and the local community. Under the Long Beach Short-Term Rental Ordinance, STRs are defined as residential properties rented out for stays of 30 consecutive days or less. The ordinance distinguishes between two types of STRs: Hosted, where the owner is present and can rent up to two rooms, and Unhosted, which is effectively prohibited as the city's regulations do not explicitly allow for full property rentals without owner presence.

Key Regulations:

1. Registration and Compliance: Property owners must register their STR with the city and pay an application fee, along with a requirement to provide a local contact available 24/7 for complaints. Listings must display a city-issued registration number.

2. Occupancy Limits: There are strict occupancy regulations—only two guests per bedroom plus an additional two guests, not to exceed a total of ten per unit. This aims to maintain community harmony and prevent overcrowding.

3. Transient Occupancy Tax: STR hosts are required to collect and remit a 13% Transient Occupancy Tax on rental income. This tax applies to all STR bookings, contributing to local services.

4. Zoning and Restrictions: STRs are subject to zoning laws and can't be located in certain prohibited areas or types of housing, such as affordable housing units. The city allows only 800 registrations for non-primary residence rentals.

5. Community Impact and Engagement: The development of these regulations included community feedback, ensuring the voice and concerns of residents influenced the final policies aimed at protecting housing availability and integrity.

6. Enforcement and Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to significant penalties, including the potential for fines exceeding $20,000 and removal from rental platforms.

Real estate investors and property owners interested in STR management in Long Beach must navigate these regulations carefully to sustain lawful operations while contributing to the local economy. The city emphasizes responsible hosting that respects both the character of neighborhoods and the needs of residents.