Permit Requirements: El Monte vs Lakewood
How do permit requirements rules compare between El Monte, CA and Lakewood, CA?
El Monte and Lakewood have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte does not issue short-term rental permits. The City's Zoning Code (Title 17) prohibits residential rentals of less than 30 consecutive days, and ADUs/JADUs must be rented for terms longer than 30 days, consistent with California Government Code §66314(a)(3).
View full El Monte rules →Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood, CA Ordinance 2023-2 (effective May 25, 2023) prohibits all short-term rentals (under 31 consecutive days) in every residential zoning district. Permits issued before March 1, 2023 sunset on June 30, 2024.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| STR permit available | No — no permitting framework exists | - |
| Minimum rental term | 30+ consecutive days | - |
| Legal basis | El Monte Zoning Code Title 17; Cal. Gov. Code §66314(a)(3) | - |
| Enforcement contact | El Monte Planning Division (626) 580-2070 | - |
| TOT applicability | Hotels only (10% per Title 3) | - |
| Status | - | Prohibited |
| Authority | - | Ordinance 2023-2 |
| Effective | - | May 25, 2023 |
| Permit Sunset | - | June 30, 2024 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I get a permit to rent my El Monte home on Airbnb?
No. The City does not issue short-term rental permits. Residential rentals must be for terms longer than 30 consecutive days under Title 17 of the El Monte Zoning Code.
What if I just register and pay TOT?
TOT (10% under El Monte Title 3) applies to lawful 'hotels.' Paying TOT does not legalize an STR use that is not allowed in residential zoning districts.
Does this apply to ADUs too?
Yes. Per Ord. 2994 and Cal. Gov. Code §66314(a)(3), El Monte ADUs and JADUs must be rented for terms longer than 30 days.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I rent my Lakewood, CA home on Airbnb?
No. Ordinance 2023-2 (effective May 25, 2023) prohibits all short-term rentals of less than 31 consecutive days in every residential zoning district. Permits issued before March 1, 2023 expired June 30, 2024.
What about long-term rentals?
The ban applies only to stays of less than 31 consecutive days. Conventional 30+ day residential leases remain allowed under standard California landlord-tenant law and Lakewood's residential zoning rules.
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