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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Somerset, CA

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (VHRs) are limited by a 900-permit county-wide cap and a 500-foot buffer requirement between new rentals. They are prohibited in ADUs, RVs, tents, and campers, and special events are not permitted at these properties.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit an application and pay fees (e.g., $564 for new VHR) via the HDL online permitting portal. 2. Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection (required every two years). 3. Once the permit is issued, provide a copy to the Treasurer-Tax Collector to obtain a Business License and register for TOT.

Official Resources

Official Somerset STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Somerset, CA?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Somerset, CA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (VHRs) are limited by a 900-permit county-wide cap and a 500-foot buffer requirement between new rentals. They are prohibited in ADUs, RVs, tents, and campers, and special events are not permitted at these properties. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Somerset, CA?
Short-term rentals (VHRs) are limited by a 900-permit county-wide cap and a 500-foot buffer requirement between new rentals. They are prohibited in ADUs, RVs, tents, and campers, and special events are not permitted at these properties.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Somerset?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Somerset. 1. Submit an application and pay fees (e.g., $564 for new VHR) via the HDL online permitting portal. 2. Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection (required every two years). 3. Once the permit is issued, provide a copy to the Treasurer-Tax Collector to obtain a Business License and register for TOT.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Somerset?
1. Submit an application and pay fees (e.g., $564 for new VHR) via the HDL online permitting portal. 2. Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection (required every two years). 3. Once the permit is issued, provide a copy to the Treasurer-Tax Collector to obtain a Business License and register for TOT.
Is Vrbo legal in Somerset, CA?
Vrbo is permitted in Somerset, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Somerset?
Short-term rental hosts in Somerset 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Somerset?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Somerset. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction