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

Registration in Milpitas is a two-stage process governed by the STR ordinance (Zoning Code Section 13, XI-10-13.17). First, the host registers as a business through the City's online system and obtains a Home Occupation Business License, listing the business type as 'Short-Term Rental' with SIC code 6519001. Second, the host submits the General Application with the required supplemental forms to the Planning Department at shorttermrentals@milpitas.gov to obtain the STR permit. Once issued, the City provides an STR registration number, and the City requires that this number appear on all advertisements and listings (for example, on Airbnb or Vrbo). No exterior signage advertising the rental is permitted at the property. The permit is valid annually on a rolling basis and expires each December 31, so both the permit and the business license must be renewed each year. Hosts must also keep their contact information and local-contact details current. A host is defined as either the property owner or the resident of the property where the STR is located, and the host must reside in the specific dwelling unit being rented. New residents must have lived in that specific dwelling for at least 60 consecutive days before applying.