Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Tomales, CA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Tomales, CA, but with restrictions. STRs in Tomales are subject to a township-specific cap (initial 12, ultimate 11) and a countywide cap of 1,200. 'Hosted' rentals require the owner to reside on-site for at least six months annually; unhosted rentals require a 24/7 local contact, neighbor notification within 300 feet, and exterior signage. 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.

STRs in Tomales are subject to a township-specific cap (initial 12, ultimate 11) and a countywide cap of 1,200. 'Hosted' rentals require the owner to reside on-site for at least six months annually; unhosted rentals require a 24/7 local contact, neighbor notification within 300 feet, and exterior signage.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Tomales. 1. Submit a completed STR License Application to the Planning Division with the required fee ($300-$600). 2. Provide documentation including a site plan, proof of primary residence (for hosted), and water/septic inspection reports if applicable. 3. Complete a self-certification safety checklist; licenses are issued for two-year terms and must be renewed 60 days before expiration.

1. Submit a completed STR License Application to the Planning Division with the required fee ($300-$600). 2. Provide documentation including a site plan, proof of primary residence (for hosted), and water/septic inspection reports if applicable. 3. Complete a self-certification safety checklist; licenses are issued for two-year terms and must be renewed 60 days before expiration.

Vrbo is permitted in Tomales, 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Tomales 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Tomales. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.