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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Pismo Beach, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Vacation Rentals are restricted to C-1, RR, or R-4 zones in the downtown core. New Short-Term Rentals in residential zones are prohibited as of Nov 7, 2023; only existing permitted addresses may operate. All units must pass a safety inspection (smoke/CO alarms, fire extinguishers, 6-inch address numbering) and obtain a Business License and TOT Certificate.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit an application via the CitizenServe online portal for Planning Division approval. 2. Schedule and pass a compliance inspection by Code Enforcement using the City's Inspector's Checklist. 3. Upon Planning approval, obtain a Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate from the Finance Department.

Regulatory Updates — Pismo Beach

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedOctober 2022

Pismo Beach STR Permit Program

City requires annual STR permit with fire safety inspection; permit number required in all platform listings. Occupancy limits and noise compliance enforced.

PassedMarch 2024

Pismo Beach Transient Occupancy Tax Rate Update

City updated TOT rate for STR operators; all must register with the city finance department and remit monthly. San Luis Obispo County TOT also applies on top of city TOT.

Under ReviewAugust 2025

San Luis Obispo County STR Monitoring Study

County-wide study examining STR density and housing availability; Pismo Beach included in scope. No restrictions are expected given the city's permissive resort character.

Official Resources

Official Pismo Beach STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Pismo Beach Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local chamber supporting Pismo Beach's tourism economy including vacation rental operators who are a primary driver of coastal visitor spending.

California Rental Housing AssociationStatewide

Statewide housing provider association that tracks STR legislation and provides compliance resources for California operators.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Pismo Beach, CA?
Vacation Rentals are restricted to C-1, RR, or R-4 zones in the downtown core. New Short-Term Rentals in residential zones are prohibited as of Nov 7, 2023; only existing permitted addresses may operate. All units must pass a safety inspection (smoke/CO alarms, fire extinguishers, 6-inch address numbering) and obtain a Business License and TOT Certificate.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Pismo Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Pismo Beach. 1. Submit an application via the CitizenServe online portal for Planning Division approval. 2. Schedule and pass a compliance inspection by Code Enforcement using the City's Inspector's Checklist. 3. Upon Planning approval, obtain a Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate from the Finance Department.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Pismo Beach?
1. Submit an application via the CitizenServe online portal for Planning Division approval. 2. Schedule and pass a compliance inspection by Code Enforcement using the City's Inspector's Checklist. 3. Upon Planning approval, obtain a Business License and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate from the Finance Department.
What does Pismo Beach require for STR operation?
An annual City of Pismo Beach STR permit with fire safety inspection. You must also register with the city for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) remittance and comply with San Luis Obispo County TOT requirements. Permit number required in all listings.
How does Pismo Beach compare to other California coastal STR markets?
Pismo Beach is generally more permissive than cities like Laguna Beach, Santa Cruz, or Malibu. No cap on STR permits is in place, and primary-residence requirements have not been enacted. It remains one of California's more accessible coastal markets for STR operators.
What taxes apply to Pismo Beach STRs?
City of Pismo Beach TOT plus San Luis Obispo County TOT — both apply and must be remitted separately. California state income tax applies to rental income. Platforms like Airbnb typically collect and remit TOT on your behalf for platform-facilitated bookings.
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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