Elk Grove, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

Elk Grove follows California Building Code (Title 24) and California Fire Code occupancy standards for residential dwellings used as STRs. The industry-standard formula is 2 adults per bedroom plus 2 additional guests (e.g., a 3-bedroom unit = 8 guests maximum), consistent with HUD occupancy guidelines and most California municipal STR ordinances. Children under 2 are typically excluded from the count. Actual limits may be lower based on: bedroom size and egress window compliance (minimum 5.7 sq ft openable area per CRC §R310), septic system capacity for properties on septic, smoke/CO alarm coverage, and HOA CC&R provisions. Operators must not exceed listed occupancy and must not permit events (weddings, parties with outside attendees) that bring the total headcount above approved limits. Many California cities impose daytime visitor caps (e.g., occupancy + 6 for daytime) to prevent de facto event venues. Elk Grove code enforcement responds to occupancy complaints; violations can result in citations and license revocation. Operators should match Airbnb/Vrbo listings to their permitted occupancy and decline bookings that exceed limits.