Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Manhattan Beach, CA

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are prohibited in residential zones outside the Coastal Zone; however, they are permitted within the Coastal Zone per a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling. Operators must collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and are prohibited from advertising rentals that do not comply with city code.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Verify property eligibility by checking the City's Zoning Map to confirm the property is within the Coastal Zone. 2. Obtain a business license from the City's Revenue Services Division. 3. Register to levy, collect, and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) to the City.

Official Resources

Official Manhattan Beach STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Manhattan Beach, CA?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Manhattan Beach, CA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are prohibited in residential zones outside the Coastal Zone; however, they are permitted within the Coastal Zone per a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling. Operators must collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and are prohibited from advertising rentals that do not comply with city code. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Manhattan Beach, CA?
Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are prohibited in residential zones outside the Coastal Zone; however, they are permitted within the Coastal Zone per a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling. Operators must collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and are prohibited from advertising rentals that do not comply with city code.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Manhattan Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Manhattan Beach. 1. Verify property eligibility by checking the City's Zoning Map to confirm the property is within the Coastal Zone. 2. Obtain a business license from the City's Revenue Services Division. 3. Register to levy, collect, and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) to the City.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Manhattan Beach?
1. Verify property eligibility by checking the City's Zoning Map to confirm the property is within the Coastal Zone. 2. Obtain a business license from the City's Revenue Services Division. 3. Register to levy, collect, and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) to the City.
Is Vrbo legal in Manhattan Beach, CA?
Vrbo is permitted in Manhattan Beach, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Manhattan Beach?
Short-term rental hosts in Manhattan Beach 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Manhattan Beach?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Manhattan Beach. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Manhattan Beach, CA?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction