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

To register, an owner applies for a Short-Term Rental Permit on a Department form under Zoning Regulations Section 6401.3(4). The application must include: a signed application form; a copy of the rental/lease agreement or advertisement reciting the performance standards (tenant limits, on-site parking, trash, prohibition of illegal activity, and noise); a valid Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate from the County under Ordinance Code Chapter 5.136 (or equivalent proof of compliance); evidence of available on-site parking; evidence the address number is visible from the road; proof of liability insurance; and the required fees. The Community Development Director approves the permit only if all requirements are met and the owner has no outstanding compliance violations (liens, fines, code matters) with the County or Tax Collector. Public notice is given at least 10 calendar days before a decision to the California Coastal Commission and owners/residents within 100 feet, but no public hearing is required, and the Director's decision is final (not appealable to the Planning Commission or Board). Owners must keep accurate records of nights rented and amounts paid for at least three years and produce them within 10 days' notice. The County permit page indicates applications are submitted online via Accela.