Registration Rules: El Cajon vs San Diego
How do registration rules rules compare between El Cajon, CA and San Diego, CA?
El Cajon has fewer restrictions than San Diego.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
Short-term rental operators in El Cajon must obtain a city business license under ECMC Title 5 and register for the Transient Occupancy Tax. The city requires TOT collection at 10% on all stays of fewer than 30 days. Platforms may handle tax remittance but the operator remains responsible.
View full El Cajon 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 | El Cajon | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Business License | Required — ECMC Title 5 | - |
| TOT Rate | 10% on stays under 30 days | - |
| Platform Collection | Airbnb/Vrbo may collect TOT | - |
| Operator Responsibility | Ultimately responsible for taxes | - |
| Finance Dept | 619-441-1716 | - |
| 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.
El Cajon FAQ
How do I register my STR in El Cajon?
Obtain a city business license from the Finance Department and register for Transient Occupancy Tax collection. Contact the Finance Department at 619-441-1716.
Does Airbnb collect taxes for El Cajon STRs?
Platforms may collect and remit TOT, but the operator remains responsible for ensuring all taxes are paid. Verify with the Finance Department.
What is the penalty for operating without registration?
Operating without a business license violates ECMC Title 5. Failure to collect or remit the 10% TOT is subject to penalties and interest.
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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