Is Airbnb legal in San Mateo?

Airbnb Regulations in San Mateo: A Brief Guide for Hosts

San Mateo, California, has established specific regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb and VRBO, effective February 1, 2021. These rules aim to mitigate the impact of such rentals on local communities and ensure that they operate within compatible residential standards.

Key Requirements

1. Registration and Fees: Hosts must pay an annual registration fee of $250, due by July 1st of each year, and obtain a business license.

2. Property Eligibility: Short-term rentals are strictly permitted in legal dwelling units, including single-family homes, parts of single-family homes, multi-family units, and condos. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) cannot be registered for short-term rental use.

3. Local Contact: Hosts are required to designate a local contact person who can respond to neighborhood complaints within 60 minutes.

4. Limits on Rental Days: Unhosted rentals are limited to 120 days per year. There is no limit for hosted rentals when the owner is present at the property.

5. Occupancy Limits: The occupancy is capped at 2 people per bedroom or 10 people per property, whichever is less.

6. Parking Requirements: Properties with up to three bedrooms must provide at least one off-street parking space, while those with four or more bedrooms must provide two spaces.

7. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): Hosts must obtain a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate and are required to remit a 12% TOT on the total rent charged for the rental.

8. Compliance with Other Regulations: STRs must adhere to additional building, safety, and health regulations applicable to residential properties.

Enforcement and Compliance

The City of San Mateo actively enforces these regulations, meaning non-compliance could lead to penalties, including the revocation of rental registration. Hosts are encouraged to be aware of local regulations and to comply fully to ensure a positive experience both for themselves and their neighbors.

For more detailed guidance, hosts can contact the City’s Finance Department or visit the San Mateo official website for resources related to short-term rentals.

These regulations aim to balance the interests of hosts with community standards, thus promoting responsible hosting practices in San Mateo.