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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Santa Cruz County, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are restricted by type and location; Hosted Rentals have a county-wide cap of 250 permits. Specific 'Designated Areas' (LODA, SALSDA, and DASDA) are subject to additional caps and waitlists, with permits issued on a first-applied, first-issued basis evaluated bi-annually.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Complete the Hosted Rental Application Form (PLG155). 2. Submit the application along with a nonrefundable fee of $149.60. 3. If the area is capped, submit a Wait List Form to the county's vacation rental email address. Permits are valid for five years.

Official Resources

Official Santa Cruz County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Santa Cruz County, CA?
Short-term rentals are restricted by type and location; Hosted Rentals have a county-wide cap of 250 permits. Specific 'Designated Areas' (LODA, SALSDA, and DASDA) are subject to additional caps and waitlists, with permits issued on a first-applied, first-issued basis evaluated bi-annually.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Santa Cruz County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Santa Cruz County. 1. Complete the Hosted Rental Application Form (PLG155). 2. Submit the application along with a nonrefundable fee of $149.60. 3. If the area is capped, submit a Wait List Form to the county's vacation rental email address. Permits are valid for five years.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Santa Cruz County?
1. Complete the Hosted Rental Application Form (PLG155). 2. Submit the application along with a nonrefundable fee of $149.60. 3. If the area is capped, submit a Wait List Form to the county's vacation rental email address. Permits are valid for five years.

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