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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Big Bear City, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Occupancy is limited based on bedroom count verified by county records; all guest parking must be on-site with no street parking allowed. Owners must provide a 24/7 local contact reachable within 30 minutes and capable of on-site response within one hour. Units must post emergency evacuation maps, permit copies, and maximum occupancy limits prominently inside.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply online via the County’s EZ Online Permitting portal (EZOP) and submit required owner information and proof of compliance with building/fire codes. 2. Ensure all required postings (permit, evacuation map, 24/7 contact) are in the unit and meet all operational standards. 3. Renew the permit annually through the EZOP portal, which may require a renewal acknowledgement form and potential re-inspection.

Regulatory Updates — Big Bear City

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedMarch 2024

San Bernardino County STR Permit Ordinance Update

County tightened STR permit requirements; operators must post permit number in all listings and on-site. Annual renewal with safety compliance check required.

PassedNovember 2024

Big Bear Valley TOT Compliance Enforcement Push

County revenue officials targeted unlicensed STR operators; estimated 30% of active Big Bear Valley STRs were non-compliant with Transient Occupancy Tax registration.

Under ReviewJuly 2025

Big Bear Valley STR Housing Impact Study

San Bernardino County planning study examining STR density and housing availability in the Big Bear Valley; no cap proposals yet but recommendations are pending.

Official Resources

Official Big Bear City STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Big Bear Short-Term Rental AllianceLocal

Local group representing Big Bear Valley STR operators; monitors San Bernardino County proceedings and advocates for fair regulation.

California Rental Housing AssociationStatewide

Statewide housing provider association that tracks STR legislation and provides compliance resources for California operators.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Big Bear City, CA?
Occupancy is limited based on bedroom count verified by county records; all guest parking must be on-site with no street parking allowed. Owners must provide a 24/7 local contact reachable within 30 minutes and capable of on-site response within one hour. Units must post emergency evacuation maps, permit copies, and maximum occupancy limits prominently inside.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Big Bear City?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Big Bear City. 1. Apply online via the County’s EZ Online Permitting portal (EZOP) and submit required owner information and proof of compliance with building/fire codes. 2. Ensure all required postings (permit, evacuation map, 24/7 contact) are in the unit and meet all operational standards. 3. Renew the permit annually through the EZOP portal, which may require a renewal acknowledgement form and potential re-inspection.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Big Bear City?
1. Apply online via the County’s EZ Online Permitting portal (EZOP) and submit required owner information and proof of compliance with building/fire codes. 2. Ensure all required postings (permit, evacuation map, 24/7 contact) are in the unit and meet all operational standards. 3. Renew the permit annually through the EZOP portal, which may require a renewal acknowledgement form and potential re-inspection.
Is Big Bear City the same as the City of Big Bear Lake?
No. Big Bear City is an unincorporated San Bernardino County community; the City of Big Bear Lake is a separate incorporated municipality with its own STR regulations. Verify which jurisdiction your property falls under before applying for permits.
What's required for an STR in Big Bear City?
A San Bernardino County annual STR permit ($200–400/year depending on bedrooms), Transient Occupancy Tax registration (10% of rental income), county business license, and fire safety compliance. Permit number must appear in all listings and be posted on-site.
Are there density caps on STRs in Big Bear City?
Not currently. San Bernardino County has not imposed density caps in Big Bear City, though the 2025 housing impact study may recommend action if housing availability is found to be significantly impacted.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction