Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do host presence rule rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles does not require the host to be physically present during a home-share rental, but the dwelling must remain the host's primary residence and the host must hold a valid Home-Sharing Registration under LAMC §12.22 A.32.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
In unincorporated Los Angeles County, the short-term rental host need not be physically onsite, but the property must be the host's primary residence and unhosted stays are capped at 30 nights per calendar year under Title 22.140.290.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Host onsite required | No, presence not mandated | No, presence not mandated |
| Primary residence rule | Yes, registered residence only | - |
| Annual cap | 120 nights without extended permit | - |
| Registration | HSR number required | - |
| Fine range | Up to $2,000 per day | - |
| Unhosted night cap | - | 30 nights per year |
| Hosted night cap | - | No annual cap |
| Permit issuer | - | Regional Planning Department |
| Applies to | - | Unincorporated areas only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I travel and rent out my whole house in LA?
Yes, unhosted whole-home stays are allowed if the property is your registered primary residence and you stay within the 120-night annual cap or hold an Extended Home-Share permit.
Do I need a roommate present during the rental?
No. LAMC §12.22 A.32 does not require the host or any occupant to be physically onsite during a guest stay, only that the dwelling be the host's primary residence.
Palmdale FAQ
Can I leave town and rent out my whole house?
Yes, but only for up to 30 nights per calendar year as an unhosted rental. Beyond that you must remain onsite or stop renting until the calendar resets.
Does this rule cover cities inside LA County?
No. Title 22.140.290 governs only unincorporated LA County. Incorporated cities such as Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Long Beach enforce their own short-term rental ordinances.
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