Registration Rules: Fullerton vs Huntington Beach
How do registration rules rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Fullerton and Huntington Beach have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton has a moratorium on new STR permits enacted May 2025, potentially extending through 2027. The original ordinance (No. 3290, November 2020) established a permitting system. As of the moratorium, 84 whole-home and 22 partial-home permits exist. No new permits are being issued while the city reviews its ordinance.
View full Fullerton rules →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach requires an STR permit under HBMC Chapter 5.120, adopted in 2021. The city uses a two-zone system: owner-occupied STRs are allowed citywide (Zone 1), while unhosted STRs are restricted to Sunset Beach only (Zone 2).
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Moratorium (May 2025) | - |
| Existing Permits | 84 whole + 22 partial | - |
| Unpermitted | 173+ listings found | - |
| Original Ord. | No. 3290 (2020) | - |
| Permit | - | Required (annual renewal) |
| Zone 1 | - | Owner-occupied only |
| Zone 2 (Sunset Beach) | - | Unhosted allowed |
| Code | - | HBMC Ch. 5.120 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I get an STR permit in Fullerton right now?
No. A moratorium on new STR permits was enacted in May 2025 and may extend through 2027. No new permits are being issued.
What about existing STR operators?
Previously permitted STRs may continue operating. Permits are valid for three years but non-transferable upon property sale.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Can I rent my Huntington Beach home on Airbnb?
Yes, with a valid STR permit under Chapter 5.120. In most of the city (Zone 1), only owner-occupied rentals are allowed. Unhosted STRs are limited to Sunset Beach (Zone 2).
How many STR permits can I have?
Only one STR permit is allowed per host or operator citywide, including Sunset Beach.
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