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Tuolumne County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Registration Rules (2026)

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Key Facts

Ordinance: County Code Ch. 8.70
Inspection Fee: $300 nonrefundable
Renewal: Every 2 years
Local Contact: 24/7, within 60 min on-site
Effective

City-specific rules exist: Sonora has its own registration rules rules that differ from Tuolumne County's county-level regulations. If you live in Sonora, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Tuolumne County requires a Fire and Life Safety Inspection for all short-term rentals in unincorporated areas under Ordinance Chapter 8.70, effective January 19, 2024. Operators must also register for a Transient Occupancy Tax certificate. A $300 nonrefundable inspection fee applies.

Full Breakdown

Chapter 8.70 of the Tuolumne County Ordinance Code makes it unlawful to maintain, operate, or use a short-term rental in unincorporated Tuolumne County without passing a Fire and Life Safety Inspection. The inspection is conducted by the Fire Prevention Division and must be renewed every two years. Operators must first register for a TOT certificate through the Tax Collector's office, then submit an STR Fire and Life Safety Inspection application via the county's online portal. A local contact person must be available 24/7 and on-site within 60 minutes.

Violations & Fines

Operating without inspection is unlawful per §8.70.060. Penalties include fines and potential cease of operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my STR permit number need to be on my Airbnb listing?

Yes. Tuolumne County requires the STR permit number to appear in all advertising for the property, including online platforms.

What fire safety items are required at my short-term rental?

Working smoke detectors in all bedrooms and hallways, carbon monoxide alarms, and at least one fire extinguisher. The property must also comply with CAL FIRE defensible space requirements.

Does the STR permit transfer when I sell the property?

No. The permit is tied to the operator, not the property. A new owner must apply for their own STR Permit.

How does Tuolumne County compare?

See how Tuolumne County's registration rules rules stack up against other locations.

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City-specific rules exist: Sonora has its own registration rules rules that differ from Tuolumne County's county-level regulations. If you live in Sonora, check the city-specific page instead.

Tuolumne County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Registration Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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