Huntington Beach, CA Short-Term Rentals: Insurance Requirements (2026)

Municipal Code § 5.120.050(C) states that "the host or operator shall maintain and provide proof of liability insurance appropriate to cover the STR as required by the City." That obligation pairs with the eligibility requirement in § 5.120.030(F)(7), which requires the host or operator to sign an indemnification and hold-harmless agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney, protecting the City, City Council, and City representatives, officers, and employees from claims, damages, fines, and lawsuits arising from the STR's operation, occupancy, use, or maintenance. Section 5.120.050(E) further makes the operator, host, and property owner jointly responsible and liable for any illicit or licit activity that creates a nuisance or other tortious violation at the STR. The Director of Community Development reviews proof of insurance and the signed indemnification agreement as part of the STR permit application under § 5.120.030, and a permit can be conditioned, suspended, or revoked if the host stops maintaining required coverage.