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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Santa Maria, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

In the City of Santa Maria, STRs are subject to a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax and standard business licensing. In unincorporated Santa Barbara County (Inland Area), STRs are restricted to specific commercial zones, while homestays are allowed in residential and AG-I zones; both require compliance with safety codes and occupancy/parking/noise standards.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Determine property zoning eligibility via the County's zoning lookup. 2) Apply for a Short-Term Rental or Homestay permit through the Accela permitting portal. 3) Ensure compliance with development standards (safety, parking, noise) and register for Transient Occupancy Tax collection.

Official Resources

Official Santa Maria STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Santa Maria, CA?
In the City of Santa Maria, STRs are subject to a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax and standard business licensing. In unincorporated Santa Barbara County (Inland Area), STRs are restricted to specific commercial zones, while homestays are allowed in residential and AG-I zones; both require compliance with safety codes and occupancy/parking/noise standards.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Santa Maria?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Santa Maria. 1) Determine property zoning eligibility via the County's zoning lookup. 2) Apply for a Short-Term Rental or Homestay permit through the Accela permitting portal. 3) Ensure compliance with development standards (safety, parking, noise) and register for Transient Occupancy Tax collection.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Santa Maria?
1) Determine property zoning eligibility via the County's zoning lookup. 2) Apply for a Short-Term Rental or Homestay permit through the Accela permitting portal. 3) Ensure compliance with development standards (safety, parking, noise) and register for Transient Occupancy Tax collection.
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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