Richmond, California Short Term Rental Regulations

City Code of Ordinances

The City of Richmond currently lacks a short-term rental policy geared explicitly at regulating the usage of platforms like Airbnb, but it does use its broad definition of a "hotel" found in Richmond Municipal Code Section 7.88.020(2) to charge taxes on residents who use the short-term rentals. It is uncertain whether residents who engage in short-term rentals will be subject to the same regulations as hotels under these articles of the Municipal Code. Ordinances and Zoning are subject to changes and should always be confirmed with the Richmond  Code Enforcement Division Department. 

Business License Requirements

You must get a business license and collect a transient occupancy tax if you operate a short-term rental property in the City of Richmond, such as renting rooms on Airbnb, VRBO, or HomeAway. Business License Application As part of the Business License application process, applicants will be referred to the Planning Division to obtain a Home Occupation Authorization and/or a building inspection before issuing the business license.

Building and Housing Standards

Richmond 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. Please consult the Richmond Code of Ordinances and contact the Building Division for more information. 

Tourist and Local Taxes

Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 7.88 requires transients to pay a Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax in the amount of 10% of the rent charged by the operator for the privilege of occupancy in any hotel.  A short-term rental for a period of thirty consecutive calendar days or less falls within the general and broad definition of a hotel. Short-term rentals might be subjected to state sales tax and are liable for payment as established by state law. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Form

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 Richmond website for more information.