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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Olema, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Countywide STRs in unincorporated Marin County are subject to Chapter 5.41 and Administrative Procedures; rentals of residential units for less than 30 days require a STR license (with exceptions). Countywide cap is 1,200 (excluding Dillon Beach) and Olema is specifically capped at 3 licenses; ADUs created after Jan 1, 2020 may be restricted from STR use; hosts must provide a local contact, post a county “good neighbor” sheet, display exterior signage with contact info and address, include STR license, Business License and TOT numbers in listings, and notify neighbors within 300 feet.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply to be on the Marin County STR License waitlist via the Planning Division STR webpage; when invited, submit a STR License application and required materials/fees to the Community Development Agency. 2) Application undergoes preliminary and technical review (e.g., fire, health); applicants must provide a site plan and septic/well documentation if applicable. 3) Obtain a County Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate from the Department of Finance; licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed 60 days before expiration.

Official Resources

Official Olema STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Olema, CA?
Countywide STRs in unincorporated Marin County are subject to Chapter 5.41 and Administrative Procedures; rentals of residential units for less than 30 days require a STR license (with exceptions). Countywide cap is 1,200 (excluding Dillon Beach) and Olema is specifically capped at 3 licenses; ADUs created after Jan 1, 2020 may be restricted from STR use; hosts must provide a local contact, post a county “good neighbor” sheet, display exterior signage with contact info and address, include STR license, Business License and TOT numbers in listings, and notify neighbors within 300 feet.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Olema?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Olema. 1) Apply to be on the Marin County STR License waitlist via the Planning Division STR webpage; when invited, submit a STR License application and required materials/fees to the Community Development Agency. 2) Application undergoes preliminary and technical review (e.g., fire, health); applicants must provide a site plan and septic/well documentation if applicable. 3) Obtain a County Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate from the Department of Finance; licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed 60 days before expiration.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Olema?
1) Apply to be on the Marin County STR License waitlist via the Planning Division STR webpage; when invited, submit a STR License application and required materials/fees to the Community Development Agency. 2) Application undergoes preliminary and technical review (e.g., fire, health); applicants must provide a site plan and septic/well documentation if applicable. 3) Obtain a County Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate from the Department of Finance; licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed 60 days before expiration.
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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