Registration Rules: Downey vs South Gate
How do registration rules rules compare between Downey, CA and South Gate, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than South Gate.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey does not currently require a specific STR license or registration. Hosts must obtain a general business license and collect the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). No dedicated STR permit program exists as of 2025.
View full Downey rules →South Gate, CA
Los Angeles County
Under SGMC Chapter 2.74 every STR operator must register with the South Gate Tax Administrator within 30 days of starting rentals, collect an 8% Transient Occupancy Tax from each guest staying 30 days or fewer, file monthly TOT returns, and remit the tax to the City. The certificate is non-transferable and must be displayed at the rental.
View full South Gate rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | South Gate |
|---|---|---|
| STR Permit | Not currently required | - |
| Business License | Required | - |
| TOT Collection | Required | - |
| Zoning Check | Recommended before operating | - |
| Planning Dept | (562) 904-7154 | - |
| TOT Rate | - | 8% of rent (SGMC §2.74) |
| Transient Threshold | - | 30 consecutive days or fewer |
| Registration Deadline | - | Within 30 days of starting rentals |
| Certificate Posting | - | Required at the rental unit |
| Late Filing Penalty | - | 10% + 0.5%/month interest |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Downey?
Downey does not currently require a specific STR permit, but you must obtain a general business license and collect the Transient Occupancy Tax. Check zoning requirements with the Planning Department.
Will Downey regulate short-term rentals in the future?
The city may eventually adopt specific STR ordinances. Contact the Planning Department at (562) 904-7154 for the latest requirements.
South Gate FAQ
What is South Gate's transient occupancy tax rate?
The codified rate in SGMC §2.74 is 8% of the rent charged. Each transient (anyone renting 30 days or fewer) is subject to the tax; the operator collects it at the time of payment and remits it to the South Gate Tax Administrator.
When does my guest no longer owe TOT?
A guest who occupies the unit for more than 30 consecutive calendar days is no longer a 'transient' under SGMC Ch. 2.74 and is not subject to TOT for the portion of the stay after day 30. Operators should document longer stays in their records to substantiate any TOT exemption.
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