Permit Requirements: Burbank vs Lancaster
How do permit requirements rules compare between Burbank, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank prohibits short-term rentals. The City's Zoning Code defines 'Hotel' and 'Motel' to include short term rentals and vacation rentals, and 'Hotel uses of any kind are not permitted in residential zones.' There is no City short-term rental permit available; a 2021 Planning Board proposal to license up to 600 STRs was not adopted.
View full Burbank 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 | Burbank | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| STR Status | Prohibited (classified as Hotel/Motel use) | - |
| Code Section | BMC 10-1-203, 10-1-602, 10-1-627 | - |
| City Permit | None available | - |
| 2021 Proposal | 600-license program; not adopted | - |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement (818) 238-5225 | - |
| Ordinance | - | No. 2018-11-45 |
| Registration | - | Required (Transient Dwelling) |
| Inspection | - | Required pre-approval |
| Max Stay | - | 30 consecutive days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Can I legally run an Airbnb in Burbank?
No. Burbank's Zoning Code defines short term rentals and vacation rentals as Hotel/Motel uses, and 'Hotel uses of any kind are not permitted in residential zones.' There is no City short-term rental permit to apply for.
Didn't Burbank consider allowing short-term rentals?
Yes. In August 2021 the Planning Board reviewed a proposed Article 28 that would have licensed up to 600 STRs in primary residences for up to 120 days per year. That program was not adopted, so STRs remain prohibited.
What counts as a short-term rental in Burbank?
Any rental of a dwelling, or portion of it, for occupancy of less than 30 consecutive days. The Zoning Code classifies these stays as a Hotel/Motel use, which is barred in all residential zones.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Burbank and Lancaster compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool