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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Mendocino County, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted by zone; in the Town of Mendocino, Vacation Home Rentals (VHR) are limited to MC/MMU districts with a cap of 10 units, while Single Unit Rentals (SUR) are capped at 20. All operators must obtain a Business License and remit Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). Inland areas (Division I) currently have no adopted ordinance.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply for a Minor Use Permit (Town of Mendocino) or Coastal Development Permit (Coastal Zone) through Planning & Building Services. 2. Obtain a County Business License and register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). 3. Renew every 4 years (after an initial 2-year term) by providing evidence of active use and TOT payments.

Official Resources

Official Mendocino County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Mendocino County, CA?
STRs are restricted by zone; in the Town of Mendocino, Vacation Home Rentals (VHR) are limited to MC/MMU districts with a cap of 10 units, while Single Unit Rentals (SUR) are capped at 20. All operators must obtain a Business License and remit Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). Inland areas (Division I) currently have no adopted ordinance.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Mendocino County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Mendocino County. 1. Apply for a Minor Use Permit (Town of Mendocino) or Coastal Development Permit (Coastal Zone) through Planning & Building Services. 2. Obtain a County Business License and register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). 3. Renew every 4 years (after an initial 2-year term) by providing evidence of active use and TOT payments.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Mendocino County?
1. Apply for a Minor Use Permit (Town of Mendocino) or Coastal Development Permit (Coastal Zone) through Planning & Building Services. 2. Obtain a County Business License and register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). 3. Renew every 4 years (after an initial 2-year term) by providing evidence of active use and TOT payments.

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