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🏠 Short-Term Rentals/Registration Rules

Registration Rules: El Monte vs Pasadena

How do registration rules rules compare between El Monte, CA and Pasadena, CA?

El Monte and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.

El Monte, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

El Monte operates no short-term rental registration system. Because residential rentals under 30 days are not an allowed use under Title 17 Zoning, there is nothing to register and no business-tax certificate available for STR activity.

View full El Monte rules β†’

Pasadena, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

Pasadena requires an annual STR permit under Ordinance 7317 (PMC Section 17.50.296). Two permit types exist: Type 1 (hosted, owner on-site) and Type 2 (unhosted, owner off-site). Only primary residences qualify. Hosts must reside at the property at least 9 months per year. Permit fee is $117. TOT of 12.11% plus TBID assessment required.

View full Pasadena rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEl MontePasadena
Registration requiredNo program exists β€” STRs are prohibited-
Business license for STRNot issued β€” zoning use not allowed-
Platform listing legalityIllegal under Title 17-
Comparable LA County cities with registriesLos Angeles, Santa Monica (not El Monte)-
Permit Fee-$117/year
Types-Type 1 (hosted) / Type 2 (unhosted)
Primary Residence-9+ months/year required
Code-PMC 17.50.296 (Ord. 7317)

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

El Monte FAQ

Is there an STR registry I can sign up for in El Monte?

No. El Monte has not adopted a home-sharing or STR registration ordinance. There is no permit, license, or registry that authorizes rentals under 30 days.

Can I get a business license to operate an STR?

No. The City's Business License Division will not issue a license for a use that is not permitted in the applicable zoning district under Title 17.

What if I already have a listing on Airbnb?

Remove the listing or convert to 30+ day stays. Code Enforcement actively monitors platforms and responds to complaints with administrative citations and abatement orders.

Pasadena FAQ

Do I need a permit to rent my home short-term in Pasadena?

Yes. An annual STR permit from the Planning Department is required under PMC 17.50.296. The fee is $117 and a notarized affidavit is required.

Can I rent a vacation home as an STR in Pasadena?

No. Only primary residences qualify. You must live at the property at least 9 months per year.

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