Pasadena, California Short Term Rental Regulations

City Code of Ordinances

Pasadena regulates short-term rentals and defines them as a dwelling unit that is shared, in whole or in part, for transient occupancy for periods of up to 30 consecutive days as a way of generating rental income.

Hosted and unhosted short-term rentals are permitted under Pasadena Ordinance No. 7137.

• The short-term rental must be the host's primary residence. Hosted short-term rentals are a home-sharing activity whereby the host remains on-site throughout the guest's stay (except during daytime and/or work hours). In contrast, unhosted short-term rentals are a home-sharing activity whereby the host remains offsite during the guest's stay.
• Vacation rentals are prohibited. Vacation rentals are defined as a dwelling unit that is not a primary residence and which is available for temporary lodging for compensation.
• Occupancy is limited to 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. There is no limit on hosted stays. Unhosted stays are limited to 90 days per year.

Consult the City of  Pasadena Ordinance No. 7137 for more information. 

Business License Requirements

There is no requirement for a business license. Hosts are required to obtain an annual Short-Term Rental permit:

• Type 1 Permit - Hosted short-term rentals where the host remains on-site throughout the guest's stay (except during daytime and/or work hours). A common example is when a host short-term rents a bedroom(s) in their home. The host must be a permanent resident of the property.
• Type 2 permit - 'Unhosted' short-term rentals where one the host is off-site during a guest's stay. A common example is where the host short-term rents their residence while they are out of town.

Before initiating your online application, you must complete all Supplemental Forms for Short-Term Rentals.  Apply online for your Short-Term Rental Permit.

Building and Housing Standards

The City of Pasadena has rules and regulations that specify minimum building, design, maintenance standards, habitability, health, and safety requirements. Some rules and regulations that apply to residential and non-residential properties may apply to your listing. Visit the City of Pasadena Building Ordinance for more information. The short-term rental activity must comply with all provisions of the Pasadena Municipal Code, including Chapter 9.36 (Noise Restrictions) and Chapter 8.64 (Litter Control).

Tourist and Local Taxes

The host shall obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate from the Finance Department. The current TOT rate is 12.11%. Short-term rentals might also be subjected to the state and county sales tax and are liable for payment as established by state and county law.

Other Rules

It is also essential to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo boards, co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable. Visit the City of Pasadena for more information.