Permit Requirements: Costa Mesa vs Newport Beach
How do permit requirements rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa and Newport Beach have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa prohibits all short-term rentals throughout the city under Ordinance 2021-17 (CMMC Chapter 13). Rentals under 30 days are banned with limited home-sharing exceptions. No STR permits or licenses are issued for residential properties.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach requires a Short-Term Lodging Permit under NBMC Chapter 5.95 for any rental of 30 days or fewer. Permits are non-transferable, require owner information on all listings, and are subject to revocation for violations.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| STR Status | Prohibited citywide (Ord. 2021-17) | - |
| Definition | Rental under 30 days | - |
| Exception | Owner-occupied home sharing only | - |
| ADUs | No rentals under 31 days | - |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 per day | - |
| Permit Type | - | Short-Term Lodging Permit |
| Code Section | - | NBMC Chapter 5.95 |
| Rental Threshold | - | 30 days or fewer |
| Local Contact | - | Required within 30 minutes |
| Apply At | - | Community Dev (949) 644-3200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I operate an Airbnb in Costa Mesa?
No. All short-term rentals under 30 days are prohibited citywide under Ordinance 2021-17. The only exception is owner-occupied home sharing where you reside in the dwelling during the stay.
Can I rent my ADU as a short-term rental?
No. ADUs in Costa Mesa are subject to a land use restriction explicitly prohibiting rentals under 31 days.
What are the penalties for an illegal STR?
Fines up to $1,000 per day, plus potential criminal charges and nuisance abatement action. The city actively monitors online platforms for violations.
Newport Beach FAQ
Do I need a permit to Airbnb in Newport Beach?
Yes. NBMC Chapter 5.95 requires a Short-Term Lodging Permit for any rental of 30 consecutive days or fewer. Apply through the Community Development Department.
What is a local contact person?
STL Permit holders must designate a local contact available 24/7 who can respond to the property within 30 minutes to address complaints.
Can I transfer my STL Permit to a new owner?
No. Short-Term Lodging Permits are non-transferable. New property owners must apply for their own permit.
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