Mono County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Host Presence Rule (2026)

Mono County's transient rental standards (General Plan LUE Chapter 26) do not mandate that a host physically stay on the property during every booking, but they impose a strong local-responsibility requirement. The applicant must designate a management company or property manager for the rental unit who is 'available on a 24-hour basis to address any problems associated with the property or the transient users.' In addition, the owner must be 'personally available by telephone on a 24-hour basis,' and failure to remain so available can be grounds for permit revocation. This ensures that someone can quickly respond to noise, parking, trash, safety, or other complaints at any hour. Required interior postings must include the property manager's contact information and emergency contacts. Separately, the December 9, 2025 policy overhaul (MCC Chapter 5.65) adopted a 'hosted' framework — replacing 'owner-occupied' language — under which a host (owner or tenant) may live on the property, including residing in an ADU while short-term renting the primary residence. Whether a particular permit requires an on-site host or only a 24-hour-available local manager depends on the unit and permit type, so operators should confirm their specific obligations with the Community Development Department.