San Diego, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- SDMC Ch. 5, Art. 10, Div. 1
- Minimum Stay
- 2-night minimum for Tiers 2, 3, and 4
- Tier 1
- Part-time; max 20 days/year aggregate
- Tier 3
- Whole-home; host not onsite; 90-day min utilization
- Signage
- Exterior posting of TOT and STRO license numbers required
Summary
San Diego's Short-Term Residential Occupancy (STRO) ordinance under SDMC Chapter 5, Article 10, Division 1 establishes occupancy limits tied to the license tier. A two-night minimum guest stay is required for Tier 2 (home-sharing), Tier 3 (whole-home), and Tier 4 (Mission Beach whole-home) licenses. Hosts must post exterior signage with TOT certificate number, STRO license number, and contact information. Good Neighbor policies apply to all tiers.
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
San Diego regulates short-term rental occupancy to prevent overcrowding and nuisance complaints. Maximum occupancy is typically set at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, though local codes vary. Rental listings must accurately state maximum occupancy. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guest compliance. Exceeding occupancy limits may result in permit revocation. Sleeping in garages, tents, or vehicles on the property is generally prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a maximum guest count per STR unit?
Can I rent my ADU as a short-term rental?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego 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.