Permit Requirements: Carson vs Santa Monica

Does Carson, CA require a special short-term rental permit?

No. Carson has not adopted a dedicated short-term rental ordinance. Operators are regulated under the general Transient Occupancy Tax ordinance (CMC §6400), which requires a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate and 9% TOT collection for any stay under 30 days.

What is Carson's transient occupancy tax rate?

9% of rent, per the California State Controller's city TOT report. The tax has been in effect since October 5, 1993 and applies to any 'hotel' as broadly defined in CMC §6400 — which includes apartment-style or single-unit rentals occupied by transients.

How quickly must I register?

CMC §6400 requires registration with the Tax Administrator within 30 days of the ordinance's effective date or within 30 days of commencing business, whichever is later, and the certificate must be posted conspicuously on the premises.

Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Santa Monica?

Santa Monica strictly regulates short-term rentals. A business license and compliance with the city's home-sharing ordinance is required. The city imposes a Transient Occupancy Tax on stays under 30 days. Only home-sharing (host present) is permitted for most units.

What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Santa Monica?

License: Business license required. Home-Sharing: Host present required for most. TOT: Transient Occupancy Tax applies. Enforcement: Active enforcement program.