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

San Bernardino regulates short-term rentals of less than 30 consecutive days through its Development Code and Transient Occupancy Tax ordinance. An STR permit application requires proof of ownership or landlord authorization, a site plan, off-street parking diagram, a signed acknowledgement of the noise ordinance, and designation of a local contact who can respond to complaints within one hour at any time of day or night. STRs are generally permitted in single-family residential and mixed-use zones, subject to density caps and minimum separation from other STRs in some neighborhoods. Accessory dwelling units built under state-mandated ADU law are often restricted from use as STRs unless the primary dwelling is owner-occupied. Permits are reviewed by Planning for zoning compliance and by Code Enforcement for prior violations before issuance. Annual renewal requires current TOT filings, a valid California seller tax permit where applicable, and no unresolved complaints. The Finance Department processes the registration and TOT collection. Unpermitted operation is an administrative citation-eligible violation under the SBMC, with escalating fines for repeat offenses. Platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO are required to collect TOT at booking on behalf of San Bernardino under a platform collection agreement, but operators remain responsible for filing monthly returns.