Short-Term Rental Laws in San Diego: What Owners Must Know

STRO License Requirements

San Diego mandates all STRs fall under one of four license types:

• Tier 1: Home sharing (host on-site)

• Tier 2: Whole home, <90 nights

• Tier 3: Primary residence whole-home (90+ nights)

• Tier 4: Non-primary residence (lottery based)

Each Tier has specific rules regarding occupancy, documentation, and renewal.

Occupancy and Guest Rules

• Occupancy limits are determined by zoning and bedroom count

• Quiet hours must be enforced

• Trash and recycling instructions must be provided

• 24/7 responsible contact required

• Noise monitoring is strongly encouraged

  
  

Tax Obligations

San Diego Airbnb owners must collect and remit:

• TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax): 10.5%

• TBID Assessment: 2%

Platforms like Airbnb collect some taxes automatically, but owners remain responsible for compliance.

Safety & Operational Requirements

Hosts must provide:

• Fire extinguisher

• CO detector + smoke alarms

• Emergency exit instructions

• Visible posting of house rules

• Parking information

  
  

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations may result in:

• Fines

• Permit suspension

• Listing removal

• Loss of eligibility for renewal

  
  

Why Most Owners Hire Management

The biggest risk for STR owners isn’t bad guests — it’s regulatory mistakes. West Coast Homestays helps homeowners stay fully compliant while maximizing revenue.