Sonora, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Rental Definition
- Less than 30 days
- Permit
- Annual transient use permit
- Contact Required
- 24/7, within 30 min response
- Events Prohibited
- No commercial functions
Summary
Sonora's short-term rental ordinance establishes occupancy limits for transient use rentals. Properties rented for less than 30 days must comply with posted maximum occupancy based on bedroom count and may not host special events or commercial functions.
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. (3) Lack of, or improper kitchen
Full Breakdown
Sonora's STR regulations define short-term rentals as any dwelling rented for less than 30 days. Occupancy is limited based on the number of bedrooms and must be posted visibly within the unit. Properties cannot host special events or commercial functions. A designated local contact person must be available 24 hours a day by telephone and physically present within 30 minutes of contact. Operators must maintain a current business license and transient use permit renewed annually. Guest parking must be provided on-site to avoid impacting neighbors.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a permit may result in fines up to $500 per day for first offense and $1,000 per day for subsequent violations. Occupancy violations may lead to permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can stay in a Sonora short-term rental?
Can I host a party at a Sonora short-term rental?
What is the local contact requirement for Sonora STRs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sonora
California rules heatmap·Compare Sonora to another location·View the California short-term rentals overview
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Occupancy Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tuolumne County handle occupancy limits.