Short-term rental permit rules in Irvine, CA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Irvine completely bans short-term rentals in all residential zones under Zoning Ordinance Chapter 3-25. No registration or permit process exists because STRs are prohibited outright. The only exception is properties in hotel-motel zoning districts.
The City of Irvine passed an ordinance in 2018 banning all rentals of fewer than 31 consecutive days in residential zones. Zoning Sec. 3-25-3.A states that no responsible party shall operate or allow the operation of a short-term rental in any residential zoning district within the City. The definition of short-term rental covers any dwelling unit rented for fewer than 31 consecutive days. There is no registration, permit, or licensing process available for residential STRs because the activity is entirely prohibited. The ban applies to all residential property types including single-family homes, condos, apartments, and ADUs. The only exception is for properties in specifically zoned hotel-motel districts for traditional lodging. In February 2021, Irvine further prohibited STR platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo from processing transactions for properties within the city. The City uses RentalScape technology to identify illegal STR operations.
Daily fines starting at $100 escalating to $500 per day. Misdemeanor charges possible. Ongoing violations can lead to legal action and court-ordered penalties.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle permit requirements.
See how Irvine's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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