Permit Requirements: Fullerton vs Mission Viejo
How do permit requirements rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Mission Viejo, CA?
Fullerton and Mission Viejo have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton requires a valid Short-Term Rental Permit under FMC Section 15.55.020F for all STR properties. Permits are valid for three years, non-transferable, and require proof of residency, floor plans, a parking plan, and a TOT certificate. A moratorium on new permits took effect May 2025.
View full Fullerton rules →Mission Viejo, CA
Orange County
Mission Viejo requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city and obtain a permit costing $250 through the Planning and Building Department. A separate business license or Certificate of Occupancy is also required. There is no cap on the number of STR permits issued.
View full Mission Viejo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Mission Viejo |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes — valid for 3 years | Yes ($250) |
| Whole-House Cap | 100 permits citywide | - |
| Separation | 300 ft between whole-house STRs | - |
| Moratorium | New permits suspended (May 2025) | - |
| Code Section | FMC §15.55.020F | - |
| Permit Cap | - | None |
| Registration | - | Planning & Building Dept. |
| Business License | - | Certificate of Occupancy |
| HOA Check | - | Required before listing |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Do I need a permit for a short-term rental in Fullerton?
Yes. All STR properties must obtain a permit under FMC Section 15.55.020F. However, a moratorium effective May 2025 temporarily suspends new permit approvals.
How many whole-house rental permits are allowed?
Fullerton caps whole-house STR permits at 100 citywide under Resolution 2021-30. Whole-house STRs must maintain 300-foot separation from each other.
Can I still operate my existing STR during the moratorium?
Yes. Existing permitted operators may continue operating during the moratorium period while the city reassesses its STR program.
Mission Viejo FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Mission Viejo?
Mission Viejo requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city and obtain a permit costing $250 through the Planning and Building Department. A separate business license or Certificate of Occupancy is also required. There is no cap on the number of STR permits issued.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Mission Viejo?
Permit Required: Yes ($250). Permit Cap: None. Registration: Planning & Building Dept.. Business License: Certificate of Occupancy.
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