Unincorporated San Mateo County requires STR operators to carry $1,000,000 minimum commercial general liability insurance under Ordinance Code Chapter 5.152. Certificate of insurance naming the County as additional insured must be submitted with permit application.
San Mateo County STR regulations under Ordinance Code Chapter 5.152 require operators to maintain commercial general liability insurance with minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence coverage, specifically covering short-term rental activity. Standard California homeowner policies (HO-3) typically exclude business/rental use; a commercial rider or dedicated STR policy is usually required. Platform-provided coverage (Airbnb AirCover, VRBO Liability Insurance) may supplement but does not automatically satisfy the County requirement — operators must verify primary vs. excess status with their insurer. The certificate of insurance (COI) must name the County of San Mateo as additional insured and be submitted with the STR permit application; renewal certificates required annually. Workers' compensation required if cleaners or other workers are employees (not independent contractors). Coastside areas may face higher premiums due to fire risk exposure.
Operating without required insurance: permit denial, or revocation if already issued. Fines $500 to $2,500 per SMC §5.152. Lapsed coverage discovered during complaint investigation: immediate suspension until new COI filed. Host personally liable for uncovered claims.
San Mateo County, CA
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See how San Mateo County's insurance requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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