San Rafael's Short-Term Rentals: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles short-term rentals a little differently. In San Rafael, California, there are 5 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
Chapter 10.110 caps overnight occupancy at two individuals per bedroom plus two additional individuals if the rental provides additional living space (e.g., a futon or sofa-sleeper). A studio is two; a one-bedroom is four; a two-bedroom is six.
Key details: Studio: 2 guests. 1 BR: 4 guests. 2 BR: 6 guests. Formula: 2 per BR + 2 extra.
Overcrowding is an STR rule violation that counts toward the three-strikes enforcement; a verified violation contributes to permit loss.
Compared to other cities, San Rafael takes a harder line on occupancy limits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Permit Requirements
Chapter 10.110 of the SRMC, added by Ordinance 1976, requires every short-term rental in San Rafael to be registered annually with the City. The initial registration fee is $170 and the annual renewal is $135. Registration is processed by Rentalscape, the City's third-party operator (effective December 1, 2022).
Key details: Code: Chapter 10.110. Initial Fee: $170. Renewal Fee: $135. Registration Vendor: Rentalscape (Deckard). Host Required: Natural person, primary residence.
Operating an unregistered STR is a violation of Chapter 10.110 subject to administrative citation. Three upheld violations within 24 months results in loss of registration under the three-strikes enforcement policy.
This is one of the stricter rules in San Rafael's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Noise Rules
STR listings must include the notice that quiet hours are observed between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. and that no outdoor amplified sound is allowed at any time. This is stricter than the citywide §8.13 nighttime rule.
Key details: STR Quiet Hours: 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.. Outdoor Amplified: Prohibited 24/7. Contact Response: 30 min response / 45 min fix. Enforcement: Three strikes = permit loss.
Verified noise complaints count toward the three-strikes-in-24-months threshold that triggers loss of registration. Police calls are also subject to §8.13 fines on the bail schedule.
Compared to other cities, San Rafael takes a harder line on noise rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Taxes & Fees
Short-term rentals in San Rafael are subject to the city's Transient Occupancy Tax on stays under 30 days (commonly 10–12% in Bay Area cities). Operators must register and remit TOT.
Key details: Tax: Transient Occupancy Tax. Typical Rate: ~10–12%. Applies: Stays under 30 days. Remit To: City of San Rafael.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Parking Rules
STR guest parking must comply with San Rafael zoning off-street parking standards; on-street parking is limited and subject to the city vehicle code, with permit districts in some neighborhoods.
Key details: Off-Street: Per zoning standards. On-Street: Permit districts. Regulated Under: Zoning. Enforcement: Police.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
San Rafael is tougher than many cities when it comes to short-term rentals. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in San Rafael, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
This guide is based on San Rafael's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.