Arcata, CA Short-Term Rentals: Permit Requirements (2026)

On March 5, 2024 the Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinances 2733 (Inland, HCC Section 314-60.05) and 2734 (Coastal, HCC Section 313-61.05), creating an Administrative Permit for short-term rentals (STRs) in the unincorporated county. An STR is defined as the rental of an entire dwelling for 30 days or fewer, or rental of two or fewer rooms with an onsite caretaker (home-share). A complete application must include a current grant deed, a Good Neighbor Guide, and an affidavit certifying the Guide was delivered to the closest ten neighboring dwellings and to dwellings within 300 feet up and down the access road. The Good Neighbor Guide must list a caretaker name and 24-hour phone number who responds timely to health, safety, and Code complaints. STR permits are not transferable and a single individual or business may not own more than three (3) parcels with STR permits. Existing STRs with evidence of operation prior to October 26, 2023 may apply for permits during the three-month window after the effective date. Permits will not be issued on parcels with active code violations.