Is Airbnb legal in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, prospective Airbnb hosts must navigate specific regulations as part of the city's short-term rental ordinance. Here are the key points to consider:

1. Registration Requirement: If a host rents their home for between 1 and 29 days, they must obtain a home-sharing permit before listing their property. However, hosting for 30 days or more does not require a permit. All registered hosts are capped at a maximum of 120 rental days per calendar year, unless they apply for an Extended Home-Sharing Permit (EHS), which allows for year-round hosting provided they meet certain conditions.

2. Eligibility Criteria: Only primary residences qualify for registration. A primary residence must be occupied for more than 6 months each year. Hosts cannot manage more than one listing simultaneously, nor can they register multiple properties. Renters looking to host must secure a notarized affidavit from their landlord granting permission.

3. Exemption from Permitting: Certain properties, such as hotels and bed-and-breakfast establishments, are exempt from registration but must still notify Airbnb to comply with local laws.

4. Geographical and Property Restrictions: The regulations apply only within specific areas of the City of Los Angeles. Properties in white parcels on the city map are exempt from the short-term rental ordinance. Additionally, properties under rent stabilization or subject to affordable housing laws cannot be registered.

5. Taxes: Hosts must collect a 14% transient occupancy tax for rentals of 30 days or less. Airbnb handles the collection and remittance of this tax but hosts must still file monthly returns with the Office of Finance.

6. Approval Process: Registration can be performed online or in person, and the approval timeframe can vary. Hosts need to provide valid identification and proof of residence, among other documents, as part of the registration process.

By understanding these regulations, hosts can ensure compliance while maximizing their rental potential in Los Angeles. For any specific questions or legal clarification, reaching out to the city’s planning department or consulting a legal professional is advisable.