Short-Term Rentals in Modesto, CA (2026)
8 verified short-term rentals rules for Modesto, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Permit Requirements
Every operator of a vacation rental or short-term rental in Modesto must register with the Tax Administrator and obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Permit before renting to transients. The permit must remain in effect at all times the unit is operated and must be posted on the premises.
Transient Occupancy Registration Permit Required
Some RestrictionsModesto Municipal Code § 8-2.606
Every person desiring to engage in or conduct business as operator of any hotel renting occupancy to transients shall register said hotel with the Tax Administrator and obtain from the Tax Administrator a 'Transient Occupancy Registration Permit' to be at all times posted in a conspicuous place on the premises.
Noise Rules
STR guests in Modesto must comply with the city's general noise ordinance under MMC Title 4, Chapter 9. Loud music is restricted before 7 AM and after 10 PM. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guests understand and follow noise rules.
Modesto Short-Term Rental Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsTaxes & Fees
Modesto imposes a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on short-term rentals of 30 days or less. The TOT rate is 10%. Hosts must collect and remit the tax to the city. A business license fee also applies.
Modesto Short-Term Rental Taxes & Fees
Some RestrictionsParking Rules
STR properties in Modesto must provide adequate off-street parking for guests. Guests must follow all city parking regulations including street sweeping schedules and time limits. No commercial vehicles or RVs associated with STR use.
Modesto Short-Term Rental Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsCal. Vehicle Code Sec. 22651 (Authority to Remove Vehicles — Driveway/Hydrant Blocking)
22651. A peace officer ... or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle located within the territorial limits in which the officer or employee may act, under the following circumstances: ... (d) If a vehicle is ill...
Occupancy Limits
Modesto's code defines a 'transient' as anyone occupying a unit for 27 consecutive days or less, which triggers permit and TOT obligations, but the Modesto Municipal Code does not impose a city-specific maximum guest count for short-term rentals. State default occupancy standards in the California Building Code and California Health & Safety Code apply.
27-Day Transient Threshold; No Local Occupancy Cap
Few RestrictionsModesto Municipal Code § 8-2.602 (Definitions)
'Transient' means any person who exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy for a period of twenty-seven (27) consecutive calendar days or less.
Insurance Requirements
Modesto requires short-term rental operators to obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Permit and maintain liability insurance of at least $500,000 as a condition of permit issuance. The permit and proof of coverage are administered by the Finance Department under Modesto Municipal Code Title 8, Chapter 2 (Section 8-2-606).