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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Chico, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are treated as taxable 'hotel' uses under Chico Municipal Code Chapter 3.52, including home-sharing and vacation rentals under 31 days. Operators must collect and remit a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and maintain a City business license; notably, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are strictly prohibited from being used as short-term rentals.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply for a City business license via the City's business license portal. 2) Register with the City’s TOT Processing Center by providing your name and property address to chicoTOT@hdlgov.com or (530) 767-1017. 3) File monthly TOT returns and remit the 10% tax via the HdL portal.

Official Resources

Official Chico STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Chico, CA?
STRs are treated as taxable 'hotel' uses under Chico Municipal Code Chapter 3.52, including home-sharing and vacation rentals under 31 days. Operators must collect and remit a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and maintain a City business license; notably, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are strictly prohibited from being used as short-term rentals.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Chico?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Chico. 1) Apply for a City business license via the City's business license portal. 2) Register with the City’s TOT Processing Center by providing your name and property address to chicoTOT@hdlgov.com or (530) 767-1017. 3) File monthly TOT returns and remit the 10% tax via the HdL portal.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Chico?
1) Apply for a City business license via the City's business license portal. 2) Register with the City’s TOT Processing Center by providing your name and property address to chicoTOT@hdlgov.com or (530) 767-1017. 3) File monthly TOT returns and remit the 10% tax via the HdL portal.
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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