Sacramento, California Short Term Rental Regulations

City Code of Ordinances

The city of Sacramento regulates short-term rentals. They allow hosts to offer a primary and secondary residential dwelling unit for stays of 30 days or less with a short-term rental permit. Sacramento also prohibits hosts from renting to more than 6 guests at a time and requires hosts to maintain a rental registry for three years. Ordinances and Zoning are subject to changes and should always be confirmed with the City of Sacramento. 

Business License Requirements

All operators of short-term rental properties (stays of 30 days or less) must apply to Community Development for either a short-term rental permit or a conditional use permit. Primary Residence: The operator of a short-term vacation rental from their primary residence must apply for a short-term rental permit, pay an annual business tax as a hotel of $50, and collect and remit transient occupancy tax of 12% from renters. Applications needed: Secondary Residence: A short-term vacation rental may operate from a location that is not the operator's primary residence for a total of 90 days in a calendar year. The conditional use permit process must be started after the operator exceeds 90 days in a calendar year. Applications Needed: 

• Short-term Rental Permit Application (this is not required once the conditional use permit is received)
• Conditional Use Permit
• Short-Term Rental Property Owner
• Business Tax Application (or online)
• Transient Occupancy Tax
• Noise Ordinance
• Rental Housing Program Standards

See the frequently asked questions about the program. 

Building and Housing Standards

Sacramento 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. View the City Building Code Ordinance and consult the City’s Building Division for more information. 

Tourist and Local Taxes

Transient Occupancy Tax is a tax imposed on any person who stays in a hotel for a period of 30 consecutive days or less. No tax is imposed on day 31. The City’s transient occupancy tax rate is 12%. Short-term rentals might be subjected to state sales tax and are liable for payment as established by state 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 Sacramento website for more information.