Registration Rules: Burbank vs Downey
How do registration rules rules compare between Burbank, CA and Downey, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Short-term rentals are effectively banned in Burbank. BMC 10-1-602 does not list STRs as a permitted or conditionally permitted use in R-1 and R-1-H residential zones. No formal permit or registration system exists.
View full Burbank rules →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey does not currently require a specific STR license or registration. Hosts must obtain a general business license and collect the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). No dedicated STR permit program exists as of 2025.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| STR Status | Effectively banned (BMC 10-1-602) | - |
| Zoning | Not a listed use in R-1 or R-1-H zones | - |
| Permit Available | None | - |
| Contact | Community Development (818) 238-5290 | - |
| STR Permit | - | Not currently required |
| Business License | - | Required |
| TOT Collection | - | Required |
| Zoning Check | - | Recommended before operating |
| Planning Dept | - | (562) 904-7154 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Can I register my Burbank home as a short-term rental?
No. There is no registration or licensing program for residential short-term rentals in Burbank. The activity is prohibited in residential zones, so no registration pathway exists.
How does Burbank find out about illegal STR listings?
Code enforcement staff actively monitor platforms like Airbnb and VRBO for Burbank residential listings. Complaints from neighbors also trigger investigations.
If I rent my home for exactly 30 days, is that a short-term rental?
No. Burbank's prohibition covers rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days. Rentals of 30 or more consecutive days are permitted as standard residential leasing and are not subject to STR rules or the Transient Occupancy Tax.
Downey FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Downey?
Downey does not currently require a specific STR permit, but you must obtain a general business license and collect the Transient Occupancy Tax. Check zoning requirements with the Planning Department.
Will Downey regulate short-term rentals in the future?
The city may eventually adopt specific STR ordinances. Contact the Planning Department at (562) 904-7154 for the latest requirements.
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