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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Oakhurst, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Operational standards include occupancy limits based on unit size, mandatory on-site parking, noise and quiet-hour restrictions, trash management protocols, and fire/life-safety compliance including defensible space. Operators must also remit a 9% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and maintain a business license.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply for a non-transferable STVR permit through the Madera County Planning Division. 2) Obtain a business license and TOT certificate from the Treasurer-Tax Collector. 3) Schedule and pass a required Fire inspection (2026 fee is $196.00) and ensure all operational standards are met for permit issuance and annual renewal.

Regulatory Updates — Oakhurst

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedOctober 2024

Defensible Space Inspection Program Expanded

Madera County expanded its defensible space inspection program for STR properties in the Oakhurst area, requiring annual fire-clearance certification as part of the STR permit renewal process.

PassedMay 2024

Fire/Life Safety Compliance Standards Updated

Madera County updated its fire and life safety standards for STR properties to align with current CAL FIRE requirements, adding new obligations for emergency egress signage and fire extinguisher placement.

PassedFebruary 2024

STR Permit Audit for Unpermitted Operators

Madera County conducted an audit using Yosemite-area booking platform data to identify unpermitted STR operators in Oakhurst, issuing compliance notices and fines to operators without active permits.

Official Resources

Official Oakhurst STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing advocacy and compliance resources for vacation rental professionals in California's Sierra Nevada foothills and Yosemite gateway markets.

California Rental Housing AssociationStatewide

Statewide property owner and landlord advocacy group monitoring Madera County STR regulations and fire-safety compliance requirements.

Yosemite Sierra Visitors BureauLocal

Local destination marketing organization for the Oakhurst and Sierra foothills area, monitoring STR availability and its role in accommodating Yosemite National Park visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Oakhurst, CA?
Operational standards include occupancy limits based on unit size, mandatory on-site parking, noise and quiet-hour restrictions, trash management protocols, and fire/life-safety compliance including defensible space. Operators must also remit a 9% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and maintain a business license.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Oakhurst?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Oakhurst. 1) Apply for a non-transferable STVR permit through the Madera County Planning Division. 2) Obtain a business license and TOT certificate from the Treasurer-Tax Collector. 3) Schedule and pass a required Fire inspection (2026 fee is $196.00) and ensure all operational standards are met for permit issuance and annual renewal.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Oakhurst?
1) Apply for a non-transferable STVR permit through the Madera County Planning Division. 2) Obtain a business license and TOT certificate from the Treasurer-Tax Collector. 3) Schedule and pass a required Fire inspection (2026 fee is $196.00) and ensure all operational standards are met for permit issuance and annual renewal.
What fire-safety requirements apply to my Oakhurst STR?
Madera County requires STR properties to meet defensible space standards (vegetation clearance around structures), CAL FIRE-compliant fire/life safety equipment, emergency egress signage, and proper fire extinguisher placement. Annual fire-clearance certification is now required at permit renewal.
Is Oakhurst in a high fire-risk area and does that affect my STR permit?
Yes. Oakhurst is in a high and very high fire-hazard severity zone. This triggers specific defensible space and fire-safety compliance requirements that are more extensive than in lower-risk areas. Failure to maintain compliance — particularly defensible space — can result in permit suspension.
Does California have a law protecting Oakhurst STR operators from a county ban?
No. California has no statewide STR preemption law. Madera County retains full authority to restrict or ban STRs, add permit caps, or impose additional fire-safety requirements. Operators should monitor county planning meetings for regulatory changes.
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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