Taxes & Fees: Downey vs El Monte
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Downey, CA and El Monte, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than El Monte.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey charges a Transient Occupancy Tax on stays under 30 days. Voters approved Measure D in November 2022 to increase the TOT rate to 13%. Hosts must collect and remit TOT quarterly to the Finance Department.
View full Downey rules →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte prohibits short-term rentals citywide; the 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (effective Oct. 1, 1992) reaches only licensed hotels and motels, not residential STRs, which cannot legally operate.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| TOT Rate | 13% (Measure D, Nov. 2022) | - |
| Applies To | Stays under 30 days | - |
| Remittance | Quarterly to Finance Dept. | - |
| Finance Dept | (562) 904-7265 | - |
| Business License | Also required | - |
| City TOT rate (hotels/motels only) | - | 10% |
| TOT effective date | - | October 1, 1992 |
| Residential STR permit | - | Not available — STRs prohibited |
| Transient definition | - | Stays of 30 consecutive days or less |
| Filing frequency | - | Monthly (online portal) |
| Finance contact | - | license@elmonteca.gov / (626) 580-2031 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
What is Downey's TOT rate for short-term rentals?
Downey's TOT rate is 13%, increased from 9% after voters approved Measure D in November 2022. It applies to all stays under 30 consecutive days.
How do I remit TOT in Downey?
Hosts must collect TOT from guests and remit it quarterly to the Downey Finance Department. Contact (562) 904-7265 for registration and remittance details.
El Monte FAQ
Can I list my El Monte home on Airbnb?
No. El Monte's Zoning Code and ADU Program Guidelines prohibit renting dwelling units (including ADUs and JADUs) for periods of less than 30 consecutive calendar days. There is no city STR permit available.
Does the 10% TOT apply to a 30+ day stay?
No. A 'transient' is defined as an occupancy of 30 consecutive days or less; stays of 31+ days are not subject to the TOT under the city's hotel/motel tax framework.
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