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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Menlo Park, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (30 days or less) must register with the City and obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate. Operators are required to collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) at the current city rate (15.5% as of 2026), maintain records for three years, and post the registration certificate conspicuously on the premises.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Register for an account through the Menlo Park TOT Processing Center (HdL) portal at menlopark.hdlgov.com. 2. Complete the registration form to obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate. 3. Post the certificate on the premises and file monthly or quarterly TOT returns as required by the tax administrator.

Official Resources

Official Menlo Park STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Menlo Park, CA?
Short-term rentals (30 days or less) must register with the City and obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate. Operators are required to collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) at the current city rate (15.5% as of 2026), maintain records for three years, and post the registration certificate conspicuously on the premises.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Menlo Park?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Menlo Park. 1. Register for an account through the Menlo Park TOT Processing Center (HdL) portal at menlopark.hdlgov.com. 2. Complete the registration form to obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate. 3. Post the certificate on the premises and file monthly or quarterly TOT returns as required by the tax administrator.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Menlo Park?
1. Register for an account through the Menlo Park TOT Processing Center (HdL) portal at menlopark.hdlgov.com. 2. Complete the registration form to obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate. 3. Post the certificate on the premises and file monthly or quarterly TOT returns as required by the tax administrator.
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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