How Fillmore Handles Short-Term Rentals: A Practical Guide

Fillmore maintains 107 local ordinances across all categories, and 7 of those deal specifically with short-term rentals. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Fillmore falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Occupancy Limits

Fillmore may limit occupancy in short-term rentals based on the number of bedrooms and property size. Standard guidelines allow 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. Exceeding occupancy limits creates safety hazards and neighborhood disturbance.

Key details: Standard Formula: 2 per bedroom + 2 guests. Daytime Visitors: May have separate limits. Septic Systems: May reduce occupancy. Fire Safety: Egress requirements apply. Host Duty: Must post limits in listing.

Exceeding occupancy limits can result in STR permit violations, noise and parking complaints from neighbors, and fire safety concerns. Overcrowded properties may be shut down by code enforcement or fire officials.

Permit Requirements

Fillmore regulates short-term rentals through its municipal code. Operators must obtain a business license and comply with the city's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) requirements. Short-term rentals are defined as stays of less than 30 consecutive days.

Key details: Business License: Required. TOT Collection: Required on stays < 30 days. Safety Equipment: Smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguisher. Local Contact: Required for guest issues. Contact: (805) 524-1500 ext 234.

Operating without a business license or failing to collect TOT is a code violation subject to back taxes, penalties, and interest. Unpermitted STR operations may be ordered to cease. The city can impose administrative fines for non-compliance.

Noise Rules

Short-term rental guests in Fillmore must comply with the city's noise ordinance including quiet hours. Hosts are responsible for informing guests about noise restrictions. Repeat noise violations at STR properties may result in permit consequences.

Key details: Quiet Hours: Typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Host Responsibility: Must inform guests of rules. Complaints: Sheriff (805) 524-2233. Repeat Violations: May affect STR permit. Parties: Must comply with noise ordinance.

Noise complaints are enforced by the Sheriff's Office. Guests may be cited for disturbing the peace. Hosts may face STR permit consequences for repeated noise violations at their property, including suspension or revocation.

Insurance Requirements

Fillmore may require short-term rental operators to carry liability insurance. Standard homeowner's insurance typically does not cover STR commercial activity. Platforms like Airbnb provide host protection insurance, but separate coverage is recommended.

Key details: Recommended Coverage: $1,000,000+ liability. Homeowner's Policy: Typically does not cover STR. Platform Insurance: Has limitations. Endorsement: STR-specific policy recommended. Proof May Be Required: As part of STR permit.

Operating without adequate insurance does not violate city code per se, but exposes the host to significant financial liability. The city may require proof of insurance as a condition of any STR permit.

Parking Rules

Short-term rental properties in Fillmore must provide adequate off-street parking for guests. Hosts should communicate parking rules to guests to minimize neighborhood impacts. On-street parking by STR guests is subject to standard parking regulations.

Key details: Off-Street: At least 1 space per unit recommended. Guest Communication: Required in house rules. On-Street: Subject to standard parking rules. Blocking: Driveways/hydrants prohibited. 72-Hour Rule: Applies to guest vehicles.

Parking violations by STR guests are enforced normally (citations, towing). Chronic parking problems at an STR property may contribute to permit revocation. Blocking driveways or fire hydrants results in towing at the vehicle owner's expense.

Registration Rules

Fillmore does not have a dedicated STR permit ordinance. Operators must obtain a Business License from the City. Zoning eligibility should be confirmed with Community Development at (805) 946-1846.

Key details: Business License: Required. Dedicated STR Ord.: None found as of 2025. Zoning Check: Community Development (805) 946-1846. HOA: CC&Rs may restrict STRs.

Late or missing TOT: 10–25% monthly penalty plus interest. Failure to register: $250 fine plus back taxes. Repeated non-compliance: STR permit suspension or revocation.

Taxes & Fees

Fillmore imposes a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on short-term stays of 30 days or less. Operators must collect and remit TOT to the City. Contact the City Finance Department for current rate.

Key details: TOT: Applies to stays ≤30 days. Rate: Verify current rate with City Finance. Remittance: Monthly to City Finance. Contact: City of Fillmore Finance Dept..

Failure to remit TOT: back taxes plus 10% penalty and interest. Audit window of up to 3 years of past-due taxes. Willful non-remittance may constitute misappropriation. Operating without TOT registration: additional $250-$500 fines per occurrence.

The Bottom Line

Fillmore'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 Fillmore is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Fillmore can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.