Permit Requirements: Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do permit requirements rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View has fewer restrictions than Sunnyvale.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View requires short-term rental operators to register with the city, obtain a business license, and comply with transient occupancy tax collection and hosting rules.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale requires city approval before any STR operates or advertises under SMC Chapter 19.76. Only hosted rentals where the owner lives on-site are allowed.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Required with Finance Dept | - |
| Business license | Required | - |
| TOT rate | 10% of gross rent | - |
| Stay threshold | Under 30 days = short-term | - |
| Safety equipment | Smoke/CO detectors required | - |
| Type Allowed | - | Hosted only |
| Pre-Approval | - | Mandatory |
| Primary Residence | - | Required |
| Max Fine | - | 1000 dollars per day |
| Code | - | SMC Ch 19.76 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Do I need a Mountain View permit to list my home on Airbnb?
Yes. You must register with the city, obtain a business license, and ensure TOT is collected and remitted on all stays under 30 days.
Does Airbnb collect the TOT automatically?
Airbnb may collect TOT in some jurisdictions, but Mountain View operators should confirm status and keep records. The operator is ultimately liable.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I rent my whole Sunnyvale home on Airbnb when I travel?
No. Unhosted whole-home rentals are prohibited. The host must be on-site as their primary residence during the guests stay.
Can I use my new ADU as an Airbnb?
No. ADUs permitted on or after January 1, 2020 cannot be used as short-term rentals under Sunnyvale SMC 19.76.
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