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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in San Mateo County, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted to R-1 and R-3 zones within the unincorporated Coastal Zone and are prohibited in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Rentals are capped at 180 nights per calendar year with occupancy limited to two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests. Operators must provide one on-site parking space (two if occupancy exceeds eight) and designate a local contact within a 20-mile radius.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate via the San Mateo County TOT portal. 2. Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application online through the Accela Citizen Access portal, including proof of the TOT certificate and a fee of approximately $500. 3. Designate a local contact person available 24/7 within a 20-mile radius of the property.

Official Resources

Official San Mateo County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in San Mateo County, CA?
STRs are restricted to R-1 and R-3 zones within the unincorporated Coastal Zone and are prohibited in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Rentals are capped at 180 nights per calendar year with occupancy limited to two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests. Operators must provide one on-site parking space (two if occupancy exceeds eight) and designate a local contact within a 20-mile radius.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in San Mateo County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in San Mateo County. 1. Obtain a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate via the San Mateo County TOT portal. 2. Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application online through the Accela Citizen Access portal, including proof of the TOT certificate and a fee of approximately $500. 3. Designate a local contact person available 24/7 within a 20-mile radius of the property.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in San Mateo County?
1. Obtain a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) certificate via the San Mateo County TOT portal. 2. Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application online through the Accela Citizen Access portal, including proof of the TOT certificate and a fee of approximately $500. 3. Designate a local contact person available 24/7 within a 20-mile radius of the property.

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