Chico does NOT require the operator/host to be physically present during STR stays. Instead, the administrative permit framework requires a designated local property manager available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to guest issues, noise complaints, or code violations.
Chico's STR rules treat 'host presence' through the lens of a local-contact obligation rather than a residency-on-site mandate. The administrative permit conditions issued by the Department of Development Services require operators to designate a property manager — who may be the owner themselves or a third-party agent — available around the clock. The local contact must be able to respond to complaints (typically within 30–60 minutes industry-standard for similar California permit regimes; Butte County uses 30 minutes for its unincorporated STRs per §24-172.1). Unhosted whole-house rentals are permitted provided the local-contact requirement is met along with TOT, business license, and occupancy/parking criteria. This contrasts with cities like San Francisco and Santa Monica that mandate physical host presence for most stays.
Failure to maintain a working local contact is a permit condition violation and grounds for administrative permit revocation. Persistent nuisance complaints (noise under CMC Ch. 9.38, parties, parking violations) can also trigger revocation.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Chico, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in Chico for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California Build...
Chico, CA
Chico is a Tree City with a strong tree-preservation ordinance; removing protected or heritage trees, including many on private property, requires a city tre...
Chico, CA
Chico does not ban artificial turf and the City permits it as part of drought-tolerant landscapes. State law (AB 1572, Cal. Water Code §10608.14, eff. 2027) ...
Chico, CA
Under CMC §19.68.050 and §19.68.070, at least 90% of plants in non-turf areas must be suited to Chico's climate and require minimal water once established. S...
Chico, CA
City of Chico parks — including the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park — restrict drone operations under CMC Title 12R; advance written permission is required. CARD-man...
Chico, CA
Commercial drone work in Chico requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; the city does not issue separate commercial UAS permits. Operations on city...
See how Chico's host presence rule rules stack up against other locations.
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