Costa Mesa completely BANS short-term rentals under Ordinance 2021-17 adopted November 2, 2021. Renting any residential property for less than 31 days is prohibited citywide. Home sharing as defined by the city is the only exemption. ADUs cannot be used as STRs.
The Costa Mesa City Council adopted Ordinance 2021-17 on November 2, 2021, prohibiting all short-term rentals throughout the city. An STR is defined as the rental of any residential property for less than 31 days, whether through platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or direct bookings. The ban followed increased complaints during the COVID pandemic about impacts on housing stock and neighborhood nuisance. Home sharing, as specifically defined by the city, remains exempt. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are subject to a land use restriction and cannot be rented for less than 31 days. While the City Council has expressed interest in potentially revisiting the issue, no permitting framework has been established. The ban remains fully in effect.
Operating an STR: fines up to $1,000 per day. Additional criminal charges and/or nuisance abatement action may be taken. Report violations via MYCOSTAMESA portal or call (714) 754-5638.
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