Short-Term Rentals in Antioch, CA

If you live in Antioch or are thinking about moving there, short-term rentals are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Antioch has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of short-term rentals, and some of them might surprise you.

Occupancy Limits

Antioch has no city-specific overnight or annual day-count limits on short-term rentals. The zoning code, however, defines a 'dwelling unit' as housing occupied on a permanent basis for no more than one family, which constrains intensive STR use in residential zones.

Key details: Per-Bedroom Cap: None set by City of Antioch. Annual Day Cap: None set by City of Antioch. Dwelling Definition: Permanent occupancy, § 9-5.203. Hotel Threshold: 6+ guest rooms = hotel use (§ 9-5.203). Boarding House: Lodging ≥30 days (§ 9-5.203).

Operating a residential dwelling as a de facto hotel or boarding house contrary to § 9-5.203 definitions and the underlying zoning's table of land use regulations (§ 9-5.3803) is a zoning violation subject to Code Enforcement action under AMC Chapter 1-5, including administrative citations.

Short-Term Rental Permits

Antioch has no dedicated short-term rental ordinance. Hosts must comply with the general Antioch Municipal Code business license tax on rental property (AMC §§ 3-1.102, 3-1.217), the city's transient occupancy tax, and underlying zoning rules that define dwellings as for permanent residency.

Key details: Dedicated STR Ordinance: None adopted by City of Antioch. Rental Business License: Required. AMC §§ 3-1.102, 3-1.217. License Tax (SFD): $250 per single-family dwelling/year. License Tax (Multi-Family): $150 per attached multi-family unit/year. TOT Rate: 10% (effective 09/11/1992).

Operating a rental property without the required business license is a violation of AMC § 3-1.102 (License Required). Failing to collect and remit transient occupancy tax violates the City's TOT chapter and California RTC § 7280. Code Enforcement may pursue any remedy under AMC Chapter 1-5 (Administrative Citations and Fines), including administrative citations of up to $1,000 per day under the City's published code-enforcement procedure.

The Bottom Line

Antioch's short-term rentals rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Antioch is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Antioch's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.