Registration Rules: Bostonia vs Vista

Do I need a permit for a vacation rental in unincorporated San Diego County?

Yes. A Short-Term Residential Occupancy (STRO) permit is required from County Planning & Development Services. Both hosted and un-hosted rentals need permits.

What is a Good Neighbor Policy?

A document posted at the STR property outlining noise rules, trash collection, parking instructions, and the 24-hour local contact number for guest and neighbor issues.

What permits do I need to run a short-term rental in Vista?

Three. VMC Chapter 8.34 requires a Vista Business License, a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Registration Certificate, and a Short-Term Rental Permit before listing a property for rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days. Business License staff issue all three on one combined certificate after fees are paid. Apply through the city and contact Planning at 760.639.6100 for the application packet.

Can I rent my Vista ADU on Airbnb under the STR ordinance?

No. VMC Chapter 8.34 expressly excludes accessory dwelling units (ADUs) from the short-term rental program, consistent with California state law (Gov Code 65852.2) that requires ADUs to be rented for terms longer than 30 days. ADU short-term rentals of under 30 days are not permitted in Vista.