Permit Requirements: Altadena vs Lancaster
How do permit requirements rules compare between Altadena, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster 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 →Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
Lancaster requires STRs to register as Transient Dwelling rental units under Ordinance No. 2018-11-45, with city Housing Inspector approval, a designated property manager on file, and a maximum stay of 30 consecutive days.
View full Lancaster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Ordinance | - | No. 2018-11-45 |
| Registration | - | Required (Transient Dwelling) |
| Inspection | - | Required pre-approval |
| Max Stay | - | 30 consecutive days |
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.
Lancaster FAQ
Do I need to register my STR in Lancaster?
Yes. Under Ordinance No. 2018-11-45, every short-term rental must register with the City as a Transient Dwelling rental unit and pass a Housing Inspector inspection before approval.
How long can a guest stay?
The maximum length of stay per registered party is 30 consecutive days. Stays beyond 30 days fall outside the STR framework and may require a different rental arrangement.
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