Permit Requirements: Fullerton vs Orange
How do permit requirements rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Orange, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Orange.
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 →Orange, CA
Orange County
Orange requires a Short-Term Rental Permit ($250) and Business License ($280) for rentals of 30 days or less. A strict cap of 125 permits is in place — currently at capacity with a waitlist. Permits are non-transferable and expire annually.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes — valid for 3 years | - |
| 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 | - | 125 citywide (at capacity) |
| Permit Fee | - | $250 + $280 business license |
| Minimum Stay | - | 2 nights |
| Effective | - | June 10, 2021 |
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.
Orange FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Orange?
Orange requires a Short-Term Rental Permit ($250) and Business License ($280) for rentals of 30 days or less. A strict cap of 125 permits is in place — currently at capacity with a waitlist. Permits are non-transferable and expire annually.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Orange?
Permit Cap: 125 citywide (at capacity). Permit Fee: $250 + $280 business license. Minimum Stay: 2 nights. Effective: June 10, 2021.
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