Occupancy Limits: San Diego vs Vista
How do occupancy limits rules compare between San Diego, CA and Vista, CA?
Vista has fewer restrictions than San Diego.
San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego's Short-Term Residential Occupancy (STRO) ordinance under SDMC Chapter 5, Article 10, Division 1 establishes occupancy limits tied to the license tier. A two-night minimum guest stay is required for Tier 2 (home-sharing), Tier 3 (whole-home), and Tier 4 (Mission Beach whole-home) licenses. Hosts must post exterior signage with TOT certificate number, STRO license number, and contact information. Good Neighbor policies apply to all tiers.
View full San Diego rules →Vista, CA
San Diego County
Vista regulates short-term rental occupancy as part of its STR permit program. Occupancy is generally limited based on the number of bedrooms and available parking, with maximum guest counts established in the permit conditions.
View full Vista rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Diego | Vista |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | SDMC Ch. 5, Art. 10, Div. 1 | - |
| Minimum Stay | 2-night minimum for Tiers 2, 3, and 4 | - |
| Tier 1 | Part-time; max 20 days/year aggregate | - |
| Tier 3 | Whole-home; host not onsite; 90-day min utilization | - |
| Signage | Exterior posting of TOT and STRO license numbers required | - |
| General Limit | - | 2 per bedroom + 2 additional |
| Parking Required | - | Typically 1 space per bedroom |
| House Rules | - | Must be posted inside rental |
| Local Contact | - | Within 30 min response required |
| Complaints | - | Code Enforcement (760) 639-6141 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Diego FAQ
Is there a maximum guest count per STR unit?
Occupancy must comply with the building's permitted occupancy load. Good Neighbor requirements prohibit exceeding safe occupancy and require quiet hours compliance.
Can I rent my ADU as a short-term rental?
ADUs may be eligible for STRO licensing depending on the tier. Check with the City Treasurer's office for current eligibility requirements.
Vista FAQ
How many guests can stay in a Vista short-term rental?
Generally two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, up to the maximum specified on the STR permit. Exact limits depend on property size and parking.
Can I host events at a Vista short-term rental?
No. Advertising or hosting events or parties exceeding the permitted occupancy is prohibited under Vista's STR regulations.
What happens if I exceed occupancy limits?
Exceeding limits may result in administrative citations, fines, and potential suspension or revocation of the short-term rental permit.
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