Cupertino, CA Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)

Municipal Code § 5.08.030 bars any dwelling unit from being advertised or used as a short-term rental until the host has registered it in the City's registry and obtained a City business license. Section 5.08.040 lists what the registration application must include: the host's name, contact information and government-issued identification; the property location and a site or floor plan showing the rental space and designated guest parking; proof the unit is the host's primary residence; written approval from the property owner if the host is a renter, and from the HOA board if one governs the property; the Local Contact's information; consent to City inspections during business hours (7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), or at any time in response to a complaint; and an indemnification agreement covering claims arising from the rental.

A registration fee set by City Council resolution is required and is non-refundable. The City will only register the rental if the application is complete, the property and host have not had two or more Municipal Code violations in the preceding twelve months, and registration has not been denied or revoked within the prior year. Approved hosts receive a unique registration number that must appear in every advertisement. Registration is valid for one calendar year, must be renewed annually, and is non-transferable, expiring automatically if the property is sold, re-leased, or transferred.