Santa Monica Permit Requirements Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Santa Monica's home-sharing ordinance under SMMC Chapter 6.20 is widely recognized as one of the most restrictive short-term rental laws in the United States. The ordinance completely bans vacation rentals, which are defined as rentals where the host is not physically present during the guest's stay. Only home-sharing is permitted, where the host is a permanent resident of the unit and remains on-site while guests are present.

To legally home-share, a host must obtain both a City business license and a home-sharing permit. The property must be the host's primary residence, meaning they live there at least 275 days per year. All listings must prominently display the City-issued permit number. The city has invested significant resources in enforcement, employing a dedicated enforcement team that monitors listing platforms, conducts investigations, and files legal actions. Santa Monica has pursued high-profile enforcement cases against both hosting platforms and individual operators, resulting in landmark settlements. Hosts who violate the ordinance face administrative fines, criminal prosecution, and liability for unpaid transient occupancy taxes.