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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Sierra County, CA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (STRs) in unincorporated Sierra County are allowed only in specific zoning districts (R1, CR, CC, CN, A-1, and GF); only one STR per legally created parcel is permitted, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) cannot be used as STRs. Maximum occupancy is two persons per compliant bedroom, not to exceed ten persons total; hosts must provide on-site fire safety equipment, a local contact reachable within 30 minutes, off-street parking, and snow-removal plans for winter rentals.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit a completed Short-Term Rental administrative use permit application to the Planning Department including a site plan, floor plan, and parking plan; 2) Pay the required application and inspection fees, which may include a septic system review by Environmental Health; 3) Upon approval, the permit is issued for a three-year term and must be renewed or updated if property ownership changes.

Official Resources

Official Sierra County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Sierra County, CA?
Short-term rentals (STRs) in unincorporated Sierra County are allowed only in specific zoning districts (R1, CR, CC, CN, A-1, and GF); only one STR per legally created parcel is permitted, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) cannot be used as STRs. Maximum occupancy is two persons per compliant bedroom, not to exceed ten persons total; hosts must provide on-site fire safety equipment, a local contact reachable within 30 minutes, off-street parking, and snow-removal plans for winter rentals.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Sierra County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Sierra County. 1) Submit a completed Short-Term Rental administrative use permit application to the Planning Department including a site plan, floor plan, and parking plan; 2) Pay the required application and inspection fees, which may include a septic system review by Environmental Health; 3) Upon approval, the permit is issued for a three-year term and must be renewed or updated if property ownership changes.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Sierra County?
1) Submit a completed Short-Term Rental administrative use permit application to the Planning Department including a site plan, floor plan, and parking plan; 2) Pay the required application and inspection fees, which may include a septic system review by Environmental Health; 3) Upon approval, the permit is issued for a three-year term and must be renewed or updated if property ownership changes.

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