Butte County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

Butte County Code Section 24-172.1(I)(7) sets the occupancy and parking standards for short-term rentals. Bedrooms used for STR purposes must provide at least 70 square feet for two occupants plus 50 square feet for each additional occupant, and no more than five bedrooms may be rented in any short-term rental. The total nighttime occupancy depends on wastewater service: a property on a septic system is limited to two guests per approved bedroom with an absolute maximum of 10 overnight guests, while a property on public sewer is limited to a maximum of 14 overnight guests. On-site residents count against the occupancy total. Un-hosted stays (where the resident is off-site during the rental) are capped at 90 nights per calendar year, increased to 180 nights for parcels in zones with a 5+ acre minimum. The ordinance further allows one daytime visitor per overnight occupant up to a maximum of ten total daytime visitors, with one additional parking space required for every two daytime visitors. Tandem parking is permitted only if parallel parking is unavailable. The owner must clearly state the maximum number of occupants and parking spaces in every rental listing and advertisement.