Permit Requirements: Altadena vs Castaic
How do permit requirements rules compare between Altadena, CA and Castaic, CA?
Castaic has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Altadena STRs must register annually with the LA County Treasurer & Tax Collector under LA County Code Chapter 7.96 (Title 7, Division 3). Registration is limited to a Host's Primary Residence — ADUs and vacation rentals are ineligible.
View full Altadena rules →Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
STR operations in unincorporated LA County require a county business license and TOT collection. California has no statewide STR framework. The county may impose additional permitting requirements. Hosts must comply with Title 22 zoning for their property's zone.
View full Castaic rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Castaic |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Code Ch. 7.96 (Title 7 Div. 3) | - |
| Annual Registration Fee | $914 | - |
| Primary Residence Requirement | 275 days/year minimum | - |
| Certificate Term | 1 year, non-transferable | - |
| Apply Via | TTC STR Unit, lacountystr.munirevs.com | - |
| Business License | - | Required from LA County |
| TOT | - | Applicable to stays under 30 days |
| Zoning | - | Title 22 applies |
| State Framework | - | None, locally regulated |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to Airbnb my Altadena home?
Yes. LA County Code Section 7.96.040 requires a Short-Term Rentals Registration Certificate from the Treasurer & Tax Collector and pays a $914 annual fee. STRs must be your Primary Residence.
Can I run an STR from my ADU?
No. Section 7.96.050.D explicitly prohibits STRs in Accessory Dwelling Units, guesthouses, or pool houses.
Castaic FAQ
Do I need a permit for a short-term rental in unincorporated LA County?
You need a county business license and TOT registration. There is no specific STR permit ordinance currently, but you must register with the Treasurer & Tax Collector and collect 12% TOT from guests.
What is the Transient Occupancy Tax?
The TOT is a 12% tax on short-term stays (under 30 days) in unincorporated LA County. Hosts must collect it from guests and remit it to the county. Airbnb and Vrbo may handle this automatically through platform agreements.
Does my HOA affect my ability to do short-term rentals?
Yes. HOA CC&Rs can restrict or prohibit STRs regardless of county rules. Check your HOA governing documents and consult with your HOA board before listing. HOA violations are enforced separately from county regulations.
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