Huntington Beach, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Base formula
- 2 guests/bedroom + 2 more
- Absolute cap
- 10 persons per STR
- Lofts
- Count as bedrooms if code-egress compliant
- Events banned
- Weddings, parties, conferences prohibited
- Fine
- $1,000 per violation, per day
Summary
Huntington Beach caps short-term rental occupancy at two guests per bedroom plus two more, with an absolute ceiling of 10 people per unit. Large commercial-style events like weddings and parties are flatly banned regardless of headcount.
The maximum number of guests who may occupy the STR at one time is two persons per bedroom, plus two additional guests (including children). Lofts that meet California Building Code egress requirements are considered a bedroom for the purposes of the occupancy calculation. In no event may the maximum occupancy exceed 10 persons in any STR. Large-scale events (i.e., exceeding maximum allowed occupancy) such as commercial parties, weddings, fundraisers, and conferences, are prohibited.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4954605; v17 updated 2026-06-16).
Full Breakdown
030(E)(6) sets the formula: the maximum number of guests who may occupy an STR at one time is two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, including children, and a loft that meets California Building Code egress requirements counts as a bedroom for this calculation. Regardless of how many bedrooms a unit has, occupancy may never exceed 10 persons in any STR. , exceeding maximum allowed occupancy) such as commercial parties, weddings, fundraisers, and conferences" outright, so a host cannot rent extra parking or waive the cap for a one-day gathering. 040(D)(1) requires the number to be posted inside the unit itself. 030.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the posted occupancy cap or hosting a prohibited large-scale event is a chapter violation under § 5.120.070(A)(3), carrying a $1,000 fine per violation under § 5.120.070(B), with each day of a continuing violation counted separately. Three fines against the same host within 12 months triggers permit revocation or suspension under § 5.120.070(C).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can stay in a Huntington Beach short-term rental?
Can I host a wedding or party at my STR if I stay under the occupancy cap?
Where must the occupancy limit be posted?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Huntington Beach
California rules heatmap·Compare Huntington Beach to another location·View the California short-term rentals overview
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