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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Petaluma, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only in residential, planned unit development (PUD), and mixed-use zoning districts. Hosted units (owner on-site) may rent up to two bedrooms with a limit of 2 overnight occupants per bedroom plus 2; non-hosted units may rent the entire dwelling but are limited to 90 days per calendar year. ADUs permitted after Sept 7, 2017, are prohibited from STR use, and all listings must include the city permit number.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit the Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit application and City General Application via the Planning Application Hub; 2) Pay the initial permit fee ($459 plus 9% overhead) and obtain a City Business License and TOT certificate; 3) Provide documentation including owner verification, local manager contact info, and proof of safety compliance (smoke/CO detectors). Permits must be renewed annually by Dec 31.

Official Resources

Official Petaluma STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Petaluma, CA?
STRs are permitted only in residential, planned unit development (PUD), and mixed-use zoning districts. Hosted units (owner on-site) may rent up to two bedrooms with a limit of 2 overnight occupants per bedroom plus 2; non-hosted units may rent the entire dwelling but are limited to 90 days per calendar year. ADUs permitted after Sept 7, 2017, are prohibited from STR use, and all listings must include the city permit number.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Petaluma?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Petaluma. 1) Submit the Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit application and City General Application via the Planning Application Hub; 2) Pay the initial permit fee ($459 plus 9% overhead) and obtain a City Business License and TOT certificate; 3) Provide documentation including owner verification, local manager contact info, and proof of safety compliance (smoke/CO detectors). Permits must be renewed annually by Dec 31.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Petaluma?
1) Submit the Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit application and City General Application via the Planning Application Hub; 2) Pay the initial permit fee ($459 plus 9% overhead) and obtain a City Business License and TOT certificate; 3) Provide documentation including owner verification, local manager contact info, and proof of safety compliance (smoke/CO detectors). Permits must be renewed annually by Dec 31.
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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