Short-term rental permit rules in Topanga, CA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
STR operations in unincorporated LA County require a county business license and TOT collection. California has no statewide STR framework. The county may impose additional permitting requirements. Hosts must comply with Title 22 zoning for their property's zone.
STR operations in unincorporated LA County currently require a county business license from the Treasurer & Tax Collector and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) registration. The TOT rate is 12% for unincorporated areas. The county has been developing comprehensive STR regulations but as of 2025, no specific STR permit ordinance has been enacted for unincorporated areas. Hosting platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo) may collect and remit TOT automatically through agreements with the county. Independent hosts must register for TOT collection and remit monthly. HOA restrictions on STRs are separately enforceable.
Operating without a business license carries fines of $250-$500. Failure to collect and remit TOT is subject to back taxes, penalties of 10% of unpaid tax, and interest. The Treasurer & Tax Collector can audit and assess unpaid TOT for up to 3 years. Willful failure to remit collected TOT may constitute misappropriation. Contact the Treasurer & Tax Collector at (213) 974-2111 for registration.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle permit requirements.
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