San Mateo, California

Short-Term Rental Regulations — San Mateo County

Allowed (Permit Required)

STR Status

Permit: RequiredFee: $250Business License Required
✓ Verified against the official ordinance.View source· Last verified 6/7/2026
$250License Cost
120Annual Cap

Permit & Licensing

Permit RequiredYes
License Cost$250
Renewalannual
Business License RequiredYes
WaitlistNot specified

Owner Requirements

Owner Occupancy RequiredNot specified
Primary Residence RequiredNot specified
Insurance RequiredNot specified

Limits & Restrictions

Max Nights Per Year120
Parking RequiredYes

Taxes & Fees

Transient Occupancy Tax / TOTContact city for rates

Zoning Restrictions

  • Legal dwelling units only (single-family, multi-family, condo); ADUs prohibited

Official Sources

cityofsanmateo.org/4531/Short-Term-Rental-STR-Ordinance
Data confidence: 97%Last updated: June 7, 2026

Short-term rental rules in San Mateo, California

Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) in San Mateo, California are allowed with a permit. Operators must obtain a permit (fee: $250).

Frequently asked questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in San Mateo, California?

Short-term rentals (including Airbnb and Vrbo) are allowed with a permit in San Mateo, California.

Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in San Mateo?

A short-term rental permit is required, a business license is also required, the fee is $250.

Are there stay limits for short-term rentals in San Mateo?

Yes — San Mateo sets a cap of 120 rental nights per year.

Where do these San Mateo short-term rental rules come from?

These details are verified against San Mateo's official short-term rental ordinance and updated when the rules change.

Always verify before you buy. Short-term-rental rules change often and may not be fully current here. Confirm directly with San Mateo, San Mateo County, or California authorities — and consult a qualified attorney — before purchasing property or operating an STR. This is not legal advice.