Redwood City vs South San Francisco
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Redwood City, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
Redwood City has fewer restrictions than South San Francisco.
Redwood City, CA
San Mateo County
Redwood City charges 12% TOT on all STR stays under 30 days. TOT revenue is dedicated to the City's Affordable Housing Fund. Hosts must collect and remit TOT unless their platform collects it on their behalf.
View full Redwood City rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
South San Francisco charges TOT under SSFMC Ch. 4.20 starting at 11% general + 1% special, automatically increasing 1%/year up to a 14% maximum. A Conference Center Tax (CCT) also applies. Business license also required.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| TOT Rate | 12% | Up to 14% (auto-escalating; currently up to 14%) |
| Applies To | Stays under 30 nights | - |
| Revenue Goes To | Affordable Housing Fund | - |
| Platform Collection | Airbnb may collect; verify your situation | - |
| Special Tax | - | 1% (in addition to general TOT) |
| CCT | - | Conference Center Tax also applies |
| Filing | - | Online portal (new as of July 2025) |
| Code | - | SSFMC Ch. 4.20 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
What taxes do I owe on short-term rental income in Redwood City?
Redwood City charges 12% TOT on all STR stays under 30 days. TOT revenue is dedicated to the City's Affordable Housing Fund. Hosts must collect and remit TOT unless their platform collects it on their behalf.
How much is the short-term rental license fee in Redwood City?
TOT Rate: 12%. Applies To: Stays under 30 nights. Revenue Goes To: Affordable Housing Fund. Platform Collection: Airbnb may collect; verify your situation.
South San Francisco FAQ
What taxes do I owe on short-term rental income in South San Francisco?
South San Francisco charges TOT under SSFMC Ch. 4.20 starting at 11% general + 1% special, automatically increasing 1%/year up to a 14% maximum. A Conference Center Tax (CCT) also applies. Business license also required.
How much is the short-term rental license fee in South San Francisco?
TOT Rate: Up to 14% (auto-escalating; currently up to 14%). Special Tax: 1% (in addition to general TOT). CCT: Conference Center Tax also applies. Filing: Online portal (new as of July 2025).
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