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San Bernardino County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Primary-Residence-Only Rule (2026)

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: SBC Land Use Services →

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Key Facts

Primary residence: Not required
Investor STRs: Permitted
Second homes: Allowed
Verify jurisdiction: Unincorporated only

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Unincorporated San Bernardino County does not limit short-term rentals to a host's primary residence. Investor-owned vacation homes are explicitly allowed across desert and mountain zones, subject to standard permit conditions.

Full Breakdown

Unlike many coastal California cities, unincorporated SBC permits investor-owned and second-home STRs without a primary-residence test. Joshua Tree, Pioneertown, Lucerne Valley, and Lake Arrowhead all see significant non-resident-owned vacation rental activity. The county relies on permit caps in some overlay zones, occupancy limits, and code-enforcement response rather than a residency restriction. This contrasts with Yucca Valley, which has explored stricter caps. Always confirm whether your parcel sits inside an incorporated city before applying county standards.

Violations & Fines

Misrepresenting an STR's residency status on the permit application is grounds for revocation and civil penalties under SBC Code Compliance procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run an STR if I live in Los Angeles?

Yes, unincorporated SBC permits non-resident owners. Confirm your parcel is unincorporated, then apply for the STR permit and pay transient occupancy tax.

Does Big Bear Lake follow this rule?

No. Big Bear Lake is an incorporated city with its own STR ordinance. Check the city code rather than county rules for that area.

How does San Bernardino County compare?

See how San Bernardino County's primary-residence-only rule rules stack up against other locations.

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San Bernardino County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Primary-Residence-Only Rule (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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