El Cajon, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Occupancy
- Based on bedrooms and building code
- Events/Parties
- Subject to enforcement
- TOT Rate
- 10% on stays under 30 days
- Fire Safety
- Heartland Fire & Rescue standards
- Enforcement
- Code Compliance: 619-441-1726
Summary
El Cajon regulates short-term rental occupancy through its STR permit conditions. Occupancy limits are typically tied to the number of bedrooms and the property's established capacity. The Transient Occupancy Tax of 10% applies to all stays under 30 days.
17920.3. Any building or portion thereof, regardless of zoning designation or approved uses of the building, including any dwelling unit, guestroom or suite of rooms, or the premises on which the same is located, in which there exists any of the following listed conditions to an extent that endangers the life, limb, health, property, safety, or welfare of the occupants of the building, nearby residents, or the public shall be deemed and hereby is declared to be a substandard building: (a) Inadequate sanitation shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) Lack of, or improper water closet, lavatory, or bathtub or shower in a dwelling unit. (2) Lack of, or improper water closets, lavatories, and bathtubs or showers per number of guests in a hotel.
Full Breakdown
Short-term rental occupancy in El Cajon is regulated through the permit conditions established under the city's STR provisions. Occupancy is generally limited based on the number of bedrooms and the California Building Code's established capacity for the dwelling. Properties operating as short-term rentals must comply with all building code occupancy standards and fire safety requirements enforced by Heartland Fire & Rescue. Gatherings and events at STR properties that exceed the permitted occupancy or create noise and parking disturbances may result in enforcement action. The city's 10% Transient Occupancy Tax applies to all short-term rental stays of fewer than 30 days.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding occupancy limits may result in permit revocation. Gatherings that disturb neighbors may result in noise citations under ECMC Chapter 9.44 and complaints to Code Compliance. Repeated violations may lead to permanent revocation of the STR permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can stay in my El Cajon STR?
Can guests have parties at my STR?
What is the TOT rate for El Cajon STRs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Cajon
California rules heatmap·Compare El Cajon to another location·View the California short-term rentals overview
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Occupancy Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle occupancy limits.