Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Samoa, CA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Samoa, CA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are restricted by caps (2% in coastal areas, 5% elsewhere) and limited to one per parcel. Occupancy is capped at two people per bedroom plus one, and specific dwelling types like ADUs permitted after 2020 or affordable housing units are prohibited. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rentals are restricted by caps (2% in coastal areas, 5% elsewhere) and limited to one per parcel. Occupancy is capped at two people per bedroom plus one, and specific dwelling types like ADUs permitted after 2020 or affordable housing units are prohibited.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Samoa. 1. Submit a complete application including a grant deed, site plan showing parking, and a signed affidavit confirming delivery of the Good Neighbor Guide to neighbors. 2. Undergo staff review for an Administrative Permit (or Special/Conditional Use Permit if required). 3. Submit a Statement of Continued Operation and pay the review fee every two years to prevent the permit from lapsing.

1. Submit a complete application including a grant deed, site plan showing parking, and a signed affidavit confirming delivery of the Good Neighbor Guide to neighbors. 2. Undergo staff review for an Administrative Permit (or Special/Conditional Use Permit if required). 3. Submit a Statement of Continued Operation and pay the review fee every two years to prevent the permit from lapsing.

Vrbo is permitted in Samoa, CA under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Samoa are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Samoa. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.