Palmdale vs Santa Monica
How do registration rules rules compare between Palmdale, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Palmdale and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
All short-term rental hosts in unincorporated LA County must register annually with the Treasurer and Tax Collector. Registration costs $914 per year and a TOT certificate is required before hosting any guests.
View full Palmdale rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica has one of the strictest short-term rental laws in the nation. Chapter 6.20 (adopted May 2015) prohibits vacation rentals and allows only hosted home-sharing with mandatory registration, a business license, and TOT collection. Only primary residents may home-share while living on-site.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Palmdale | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $914 | - |
| Registry | LA County TTC | - |
| Insurance | $1M liability required | - |
| Local Contact | Within 30 minutes | - |
| Residency | 9 months/year | - |
| Vacation Rentals | - | Prohibited |
| Home-Sharing | - | Host must live on-site |
| Registration | - | Business license required |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 6.20 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Palmdale FAQ
How do I register my short-term rental in unincorporated LA County?
Apply with the LA County Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTC) for a TOT Registration Certificate and STR registration. The annual fee is $914. You must be the property owner or authorized representative.
Do I need insurance for my Airbnb in LA County?
Yes. The STR Ordinance requires hosts to maintain at least $1 million in liability insurance covering the short-term rental activity.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I rent my entire home on Airbnb in Santa Monica?
No. Vacation rentals (whole-home rentals for fewer than 30 days) are strictly prohibited. Only hosted home-sharing is allowed, where you live on-site during the guest's stay.
What do I need to legally home-share in Santa Monica?
A Home-Share Business License, City registration, TOT collection, primary residence status, and on-site presence during all guest stays. Apply through the Finance Department.
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