San Rafael, California
Short-Term Rental Regulations — Marin County
STR Status
Permit & Licensing
Owner Requirements
Limits & Restrictions
Taxes & Fees
Zoning Restrictions
- commercial or industrial zoned lots ineligible
Official Sources
Short-term rental rules in San Rafael, California
Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) in San Rafael, California are allowed with a permit. Operators must obtain a permit (fee: $170 first registration; $135 ). The home must be the host's primary residence. A lodging/occupancy tax of 12% applies.
Frequently asked questions
Are short-term rentals allowed in San Rafael, California?
Short-term rentals (including Airbnb and Vrbo) are allowed with a permit in San Rafael, California. The home must be the host's primary residence.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in San Rafael?
A short-term rental permit is required, the fee is $170 first registration; $135 .
What taxes apply to short-term rentals in San Rafael?
Short-term rentals in San Rafael are subject to a lodging/occupancy tax of 12%.
Where do these San Rafael short-term rental rules come from?
These details are verified against San Rafael'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 Rafael, Marin County, or California authorities — and consult a qualified attorney — before purchasing property or operating an STR. This is not legal advice.