Chico does NOT impose a citywide primary-residence-only rule on short-term rentals. The administrative permit framework and Title 19 zoning allow non-owner-occupied STRs, though performance criteria (local property manager, occupancy caps, parking) apply. Single-family residential (RS) zone applications historically have been the most constrained.
Unlike many California coastal cities, Chico's draft/adopted STR framework does not require the property to be the operator's primary residence. The 2018 Chico City Council action (Agenda Item 4/3/2018) approached STRs through TOT classification and an administrative permit through Development Services rather than a homestead restriction. Operators may run dedicated/non-owner-occupied STRs provided they (a) hold a business license and TOT certificate, (b) designate a 24/7 local property manager, (c) meet occupancy and parking criteria, and (d) comply with Title 19 zoning where the property sits. Performance criteria in the RS (single-family residential) zone are stricter, but the city does not bar non-resident operators outright. This contrasts with neighboring Butte County's unincorporated STR ordinance (§24-172.1), which Chico is exempt from.
There is no primary-residence violation as such, but operating without the administrative permit, business license, or TOT registration triggers code enforcement under Title 5 and Chapter 3.52.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Chico, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in Chico for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California Build...
Chico, CA
Chico is a Tree City with a strong tree-preservation ordinance; removing protected or heritage trees, including many on private property, requires a city tre...
Chico, CA
Chico does not ban artificial turf and the City permits it as part of drought-tolerant landscapes. State law (AB 1572, Cal. Water Code §10608.14, eff. 2027) ...
Chico, CA
Under CMC §19.68.050 and §19.68.070, at least 90% of plants in non-turf areas must be suited to Chico's climate and require minimal water once established. S...
Chico, CA
City of Chico parks — including the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park — restrict drone operations under CMC Title 12R; advance written permission is required. CARD-man...
Chico, CA
Commercial drone work in Chico requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; the city does not issue separate commercial UAS permits. Operations on city...
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