Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Arcata, CA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Arcata, CA, but with restrictions. Short-stays are defined as rentals up to 29 consecutive nights. There is a citywide cap of 100 non-exempt permits; exemptions apply for owner-occupied units, historic landmarks, and occasional use. Operators must also hold a city business license and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-stays are defined as rentals up to 29 consecutive nights. There is a citywide cap of 100 non-exempt permits; exemptions apply for owner-occupied units, historic landmarks, and occasional use. Operators must also hold a city business license and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Arcata. Apply online via the City of Arcata OpenGov portal, submitting required documents such as a business license, TOT registration, and proof of primary residence if claiming an exemption. Following a review by the Building and Planning Divisions (typically 10 business days), permits must be renewed annually with a fee.

Apply online via the City of Arcata OpenGov portal, submitting required documents such as a business license, TOT registration, and proof of primary residence if claiming an exemption. Following a review by the Building and Planning Divisions (typically 10 business days), permits must be renewed annually with a fee.

Vrbo is permitted in Arcata, CA under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Arcata are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Arcata. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.