Host Presence Rule: Santa Monica vs South Gate
How do host presence rule rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and South Gate, CA?
South Gate has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
In unincorporated Los Angeles County, the short-term rental host need not be physically onsite, but the property must be the host's primary residence and unhosted stays are capped at 30 nights per calendar year under Title 22.140.290.
View full Santa Monica rules →South Gate, CA
Los Angeles County
South Gate does not impose a host-presence requirement. Ordinance No. 2021-01-CC permits both 'hosted' STRs (operator on-site) and 'un-hosted' whole-house rentals of single-family residences without distinction, so long as the operating standards — TOT, business license, insurance, noise (Ch. 7.44), parking — are met.
View full South Gate rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Monica | South Gate |
|---|---|---|
| Host onsite required | No, presence not mandated | - |
| Unhosted night cap | 30 nights per year | - |
| Hosted night cap | No annual cap | - |
| Permit issuer | Regional Planning Department | - |
| Applies to | Unincorporated areas only | - |
| Host Presence Required | - | No |
| Whole-House Rentals | - | Permitted under Ord. 2021-01-CC |
| 24/7 Local Contact | - | Recommended; required for tax purposes |
| Quiet Hours | - | 10 p.m.–7 a.m. (SGMC Ch. 7.44) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I leave town and rent out my whole house?
Yes, but only for up to 30 nights per calendar year as an unhosted rental. Beyond that you must remain onsite or stop renting until the calendar resets.
Does this rule cover cities inside LA County?
No. Title 22.140.290 governs only unincorporated LA County. Incorporated cities such as Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Long Beach enforce their own short-term rental ordinances.
South Gate FAQ
Do I have to stay on-site when my Airbnb guests are there?
No. South Gate's Ordinance No. 2021-01-CC does not require the host to be present during guest stays. Both hosted (room rentals while you live there) and un-hosted (whole-house) STRs are allowed, provided you hold a business license, collect TOT, and your guests comply with Chapter 7.44 noise limits.
Do I need a local contact person for my STR?
South Gate does not codify a 24/7 local-contact mandate, but it is a strong best practice and the TOT Administrator expects a designated responsible party. Designate someone reachable within ~30 minutes to respond to noise, parking, or trash complaints from neighbors.
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