San Mateo, CA Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Parking Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- 1–3 BR
- Min. 1 off-street parking space required
- 4+ BR
- Min. 2 off-street spaces required
- RV Street Parking
- Prohibited (max 24 hrs twice/week for owners)
- Code
- SMMC Ch. 5.66 & §11.32.105
Summary
San Mateo requires STR properties with 1–3 bedrooms to have at least 1 off-street parking space, and 4+ bedrooms at least 2 spaces. Oversized vehicles (RVs) are prohibited from on-street parking in residential areas overnight.
22651. A peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle located within the territorial limits in which the officer or employee may act, under the following circumstances: (a) If a vehicle is left unattended upon a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel where the vehicle constitutes an obstruction to traffic.
Full Breakdown
Under SMMC Ch. 5.66, STR properties must maintain minimum off-street parking: at least 1 space for properties with 1–3 bedrooms, at least 2 spaces for properties with 4 or more bedrooms. STR guests are subject to the city's oversized vehicle ordinance (SMMC §11.32.105), which bans RVs, oversized vehicles (7.5+ ft high/wide, 22+ ft long), and unattached trailers from residential streets. RVs may only park in front of an owner's residence for 24 consecutive hours twice per 7-day period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What parking rules apply to short-term rental guests in San Mateo?
How many parking spaces must my rental provide in San Mateo?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Mateo
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Short-Term Rental Parking Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Mateo County handle short-term rental parking rules.