San Francisco STR occupancy is governed by Housing Code maximum-occupancy rules plus Admin Code Chapter 41A. Generally 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional, capped by square footage, and STRs cannot exceed the dwelling unit's legal occupancy.
SF does not set an STR-specific headcount in Chapter 41A, but occupancy is constrained by the underlying Housing Code and uniform fire and building codes. The standard formula is 2 occupants per bedroom plus 2 additional persons in common areas, not to exceed 1 occupant per 200 sq ft of total floor area. A typical 2-bedroom apartment maxes at 6 overnight guests; a studio at 2-3. Hosts are required to list the maximum occupancy in their OSTR registration and in platform listings. Exceeding occupancy is a dual violation: of Chapter 41A operating conditions and of the Housing Code, with fines up to $1,000 per day. Events (parties, weddings) at STRs are generally prohibited unless the host has an Entertainment Commission permit. Air mattresses and couches count toward occupancy; infants under 2 typically do not. Neighbors frequently file complaints when STR occupancy exceeds posted limits, and OSTR uses platform listing data to cross-check.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact San Francisco code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how San Francisco's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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