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Short-Term Rentals

San Rafael's Short-Term Rentals: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles short-term rentals a little differently. In San Rafael, 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.

Short-Term Rental Permits

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.

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.

The Bottom Line

San Rafael'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 San Rafael is broadly strict or permissive.

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.