Registration Rules: Pasadena vs South Gate
How do registration rules rules compare between Pasadena, CA and South Gate, CA?
South Gate has fewer restrictions than Pasadena.
Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena requires an annual STR permit under Ordinance 7317 (PMC Section 17.50.296). Two permit types exist: Type 1 (hosted, owner on-site) and Type 2 (unhosted, owner off-site). Only primary residences qualify. Hosts must reside at the property at least 9 months per year. Permit fee is $117. TOT of 12.11% plus TBID assessment required.
View full Pasadena rules →South Gate, CA
Los Angeles County
Under SGMC Chapter 2.74 every STR operator must register with the South Gate Tax Administrator within 30 days of starting rentals, collect an 8% Transient Occupancy Tax from each guest staying 30 days or fewer, file monthly TOT returns, and remit the tax to the City. The certificate is non-transferable and must be displayed at the rental.
View full South Gate rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pasadena | South Gate |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $117/year | - |
| Types | Type 1 (hosted) / Type 2 (unhosted) | - |
| Primary Residence | 9+ months/year required | - |
| Code | PMC 17.50.296 (Ord. 7317) | - |
| TOT Rate | - | 8% of rent (SGMC §2.74) |
| Transient Threshold | - | 30 consecutive days or fewer |
| Registration Deadline | - | Within 30 days of starting rentals |
| Certificate Posting | - | Required at the rental unit |
| Late Filing Penalty | - | 10% + 0.5%/month interest |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to rent my home short-term in Pasadena?
Yes. An annual STR permit from the Planning Department is required under PMC 17.50.296. The fee is $117 and a notarized affidavit is required.
Can I rent a vacation home as an STR in Pasadena?
No. Only primary residences qualify. You must live at the property at least 9 months per year.
South Gate FAQ
What is South Gate's transient occupancy tax rate?
The codified rate in SGMC §2.74 is 8% of the rent charged. Each transient (anyone renting 30 days or fewer) is subject to the tax; the operator collects it at the time of payment and remits it to the South Gate Tax Administrator.
When does my guest no longer owe TOT?
A guest who occupies the unit for more than 30 consecutive calendar days is no longer a 'transient' under SGMC Ch. 2.74 and is not subject to TOT for the portion of the stay after day 30. Operators should document longer stays in their records to substantiate any TOT exemption.
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