Registration Rules: Chula Vista vs San Diego
How do registration rules rules compare between Chula Vista, CA and San Diego, CA?
Chula Vista and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Chula Vista, CA
San Diego County
Chula Vista requires STR permits under CVMC Ch. 5.68, effective 2022. Operators must be city residents (275+ days/year) and are limited to two STR permits — one primary residence plus one non-primary. Application fee is $250 with $175 annual renewal.
View full Chula Vista rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego requires STRO licenses under a strict four-tier system effective May 2023. Whole-home STRs capped at 1% of housing stock (~5,400 citywide). Mission Beach allows 30% (~1,100). Fees range from $100 to $1,000 annually.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chula Vista | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $250 | - |
| Renewal Fee | $175 annually | - |
| Max Permits | 2 per resident | - |
| Primary Home | 90 whole-home days/yr | - |
| System | - | 4-tier STRO license |
| Whole-Home Cap | - | 1% of housing (~5,400) |
| Mission Beach | - | 30% cap (~1,100) |
| Fees | - | $100–$1,000/year |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chula Vista FAQ
Can I operate an STR in Chula Vista?
Yes, with a permit under CVMC 5.68. You must be a Chula Vista resident (275+ days/year), hold a business license and TOT certificate, and apply with a $250 fee. Maximum two permits per person.
Can non-residents operate STRs in Chula Vista?
No. The ordinance requires operators to be Chula Vista residents for at least 275 days per year. You cannot live elsewhere and rent out a property in Chula Vista as an STR.
San Diego FAQ
How many STR licenses can I have?
One license per host. You may not operate more than one dwelling unit for STRO at a time. Licenses are non-transferable.
Can I rent my ADU as a short-term rental?
Only if the ADU received its certificate of occupancy before January 1, 2020. Newer ADUs cannot be used for STRs.
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