Source-checked permit guide · San Diego, CA
Yes. San Diego requires an STRO license for renting a dwelling, or part of one, for less than one month; the correct license depends on the city's four-tier system.
Last reviewed September 20, 2026 · Official source: City of San Diego
At a glance
The city uses four tiers based on whole-home versus part-home use and the number of rental days. Applicants must match the property and planned operation to the official tier definitions.
As published by City of San Diego · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
The city states that a host may hold only one STRO license at a time and that a license is not transferable. Licenses expire two years after issuance unless renewed.
As published by City of San Diego · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
Tier 3 and Tier 4 hosts must meet the city's 90-day annual utilization requirement and submit quarterly reports. The page publishes separate application and license fees for each tier.
As published by City of San Diego · Reviewed September 20, 2026 · Verify current
Address-level verification
This summary was checked against materials published by City of San Diego. Read the official program page and ask Office of the City Treasurer, Short-Term Residential Occupancy program to confirm the current rule for the specific property.
Not legal advice. This page summarizes a primary government source reviewed on September 20, 2026; it is not a permit decision or a guarantee that the source remains current. Requirements can vary by address, zoning, ownership, and proposed use. Confirm the current rule with City of San Diego and appropriate counsel before buying, listing, advising, or operating. The STR Permit Explainer can help prepare a research checklist.
FAQ
Yes. San Diego requires an STRO license for renting a dwelling, or part of one, for less than one month; the correct license depends on the city's four-tier system. Confirm the current rule for the exact address and proposed use with City of San Diego before relying on this summary.
Short-Term Residential Occupancy (STRO) license. The responsible office is Office of the City Treasurer, Short-Term Residential Occupancy program. Published fees effective March 1, 2025 range from a $33 application plus $193 license fee for Tier 1 to a $41 application plus $1,129 license fee for Tiers 3 and 4.
San Diego Municipal Code, Chapter 5, Article 10, including Section 510.0106(d). Open the official source and confirm any amendments, effective dates, zoning conditions, and address-specific requirements.
No. This source-checked summary and RealtrAI's STR Permit Explainer are research aids, not legal advice or a current-rule guarantee. Confirm the requirements with City of San Diego and qualified counsel.
The STR Permit Explainer creates an informational draft. Verify every current rule with the official jurisdiction and qualified counsel.
