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Short-Term Rentals

Ontario's Short-Term Rentals: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles short-term rentals a little differently. In Ontario, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Occupancy Limits

Total occupancy at an Ontario STR, including the host and all guests, may not exceed two times the number of bedrooms. A single dwelling is limited to two concurrent groups or booking transactions, and un-hosted stays are capped at 90 days per year.

Key details: Max Occupancy: 2 x number of bedrooms (incl. host). Concurrent Groups: 2 groups / 2 booking transactions. Un-Hosted Stay Cap: 90 days per calendar year. Hosted Stays: Not limited. Events: Prohibited (weddings, conferences, etc.).

Exceeding the occupancy or two-group limits is a violation of the chapter, drawing administrative civil penalties of $1,000/$2,000/$3,000 per Section 5.03.363.K, with two violations in one year triggering immediate permit suspension under subsection (F).

Short-Term Rental Permits

Ontario requires a Short-Term Rental Permit and a business license before any dwelling under 30 days is rented. Only the host's primary residence qualifies, and non-owner-occupied vacation rentals are prohibited.

Key details: Code Section: Development Code 5.03.363(B). Permit Term: 12 months, annual inspection to renew. Primary Residence: Required; vacation rentals prohibited. Business License: Required (Title 3, Chapter 1, OMC). Allowed Zones: AR-2, RE-2/4, LDR-5, MDR, HDR-45, MU zones.

Operating without a valid permit and business license is prohibited; advertising is prima facie evidence of operation. A violation is a public nuisance and a misdemeanor, with administrative civil penalties of $1,000 (first), $2,000 (second), and $3,000 (third and subsequent) per Section 5.03.363.K.

This is one of the stricter rules in Ontario's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Ontario'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 Ontario is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Ontario 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.