Overview of Long Beach Short-Term Rental Ordinance

The Long Beach Short-Term Rental Ordinance establishes clear guidelines and regulations for property owners seeking to operate short-term rentals within the city limits. It aims to balance the need for tourist accommodation with residential quality of life.

Purpose and Background

The ordinance serves to maintain the integrity of housing stock while offering residents the opportunity to generate income through short-term, transient use of their properties. The City of Long Beach implemented these regulations as a response to the rising trend of properties being used for short-term stays, ensuring that short-term rentals are conducted in a way that respects the local community and complies with city standards.

Key Definitions

• Short-Term Rental (STR): A residential property available for rent for a period of 30 consecutive days or less.
• Hosted STR: An STR where the owner is present during the guest's stay. Allows for up to two rooms for rent.
• Unhosted STR: Full property rentals without the owner present. The city's Municipal Code does not explicitly permit unhosted STRs, effectively placing a ban by omission on this type of rental.

The ordinance includes measures like capping the number of occupants and requires owner presence in hosted rentals to preserve community character and reduce issues related to transient occupancy.

Registration and Application Process in Long Beach

The registration and application process for short-term rentals in Long Beach is a well-defined procedure that encompasses specific eligibility criteria and documentation, streamlined through an online application system. This section guides hosts through each step, focusing on the requirements needed for a valid registration.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a short-term rental (STR) registration in Long Beach, hosts must ensure their property aligns with zoning requirements and complies with city regulations. They must provide a local contact person available 24/7 to handle complaints and must adhere to safety standards.

Documentation Required

Property owners seeking STR registration should prepare necessary documentation, including proof of ownership, government-issued IDs, and details about the rental property. A property owner consent form is essential when the application is not submitted by the owner.

Online Application Steps

The online application for an STR requires property owners to:

1. Access the Long Beach city website's STR page.
2. Complete the application form, ensuring all required information and documentation are accurate.
3. Pay the specified application fee, which is integral to the registration process.

A detailed guide on submitting applications for short-term rental services is available through the Long Beach City website.

Self-Certification Form

Hosts must complete a self-certification form as part of the registration process. This attests that the listed property meets all safety, insurance, and regulatory mandates set forth by the city for short-term rentals.

Operating Requirements for STRs in Long Beach

In Long Beach, operating Short-Term Rentals (STRs) requires adherence to specific city guidelines, including occupancy limits and tax compliance, to maintain order and fairness in the housing market.

General Operating Standards

Short-Term Rentals in Long Beach are governed by strict rules to ensure they fit within community standards. Hosts must ensure that the rental activity of their dwelling units occurs without disturbing the neighborhood's peace. Whether it is a hosted or non-primary residence (non-PR) rental situation, each property is expected to uphold the City's regulations.

Maximum Occupancy Limits

The city has laid out clear parameters when it comes to maximum occupancy in STRs. Only two guests are allowed per bedroom, plus an additional two guests per unit, not exceeding a total of 10 people in one rental unit. These limitations safeguard against overcrowding and preserve the quality of stay for guests.

Transient Occupancy Tax Compliance

STR operators are required to comply with Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) regulations. All short-term rental hosts must register with the city, obtain a business license, and faithfully collect and remit TOT on rental income, contributing to the city's ability to provide services.

Guest Information Records

Maintaining guest records is a crucial aspect of running an STR. Long Beach operators must keep detailed records of guest information for a minimum period, documenting the rental activity. This data should include the guests' names and dates of stay, aiding in the management of rentals and ensuring compliance with city ordinances.

Host and Property Owner Responsibilities in Long Beach

In Long Beach, hosts and property owners must navigate a set of regulations aimed at ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of guests, neighbors, and the local community. These responsibilities include appointing a local contact person, establishing emergency procedures, and upholding standards that promote good neighbor relations.

Local Contact Person Designation

Hosts must designate a local contact person who is available 24/7 to address issues relating to the rental. This individual acts as the emergency contact and should respond to concerns within one hour. It's crucial that they reside within a reasonable distance to the property to manage it effectively.

• Responsibility: Immediate response to property-related incidents
• Distance: Must live within proximity to assist quickly

Emergency Procedures

A responsible host knows the necessity of being prepared for emergencies. Hosts are obliged to equip their rentals with safeguards such as fire extinguishers, evacuation plans, and first-aid kits. They also need to communicate these emergency procedures clearly to guests to ensure everyone's safety.

• Safety Equipment: Accessible and in working order
• Emergency Info: Clearly displayed in rental

Maintaining Good Neighbor Standards

Maintaining harmony with the community is essential. Hosts must take steps to prevent disturbances, such as noise complaints, and encourage respectful behavior from their guests. Information on local ordinances like quiet hours should be prominently provided to guests to foster a responsible host environment.

• Quiet Hours: Enforced to maintain neighborhood peace
• Guest Behavior: Guidelines communicated to ensure respect for local norms

Zoning and Location Restrictions in Long Beach

In Long Beach, zoning and location restrictions for Airbnb and other short-term rental (STR) operations are carefully defined, striking a balance between tourism interests and local community needs.

Coastal Zone Regulations

Within the Coastal Zone, Long Beach adheres to specific regulations designed to preserve public access to the coastline while allowing for the responsible use of properties for short-term rentals. Property owners in this zone must obtain proper permits and adhere to guidelines that ensure the ongoing access and enjoyment of the coast for both visitors and residents alike.

Prohibited Areas and Buildings

The city maintains a list of prohibited buildings for short-term rentals, which includes particular areas and types of structures where STRs are not allowed. This is to maintain the character and safety of certain districts within Long Beach. These areas are often where increased tourism could negatively impact local resources or residential life.

ADUs and JADUs Inclusions

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) are included in Long Beach's framework for STRs with particular caveats. While these units can augment rental availability, they must comply with both state and city guidelines that dictate their usage in relation to STR operations, ensuring they serve the intended purpose of augmenting the housing stock while permitting limited short-term usage.

Legal Compliance and Enforcement in Long Beach

In Long Beach, strict regulations govern short-term rentals (STRs) to ensure compliance and maintain the integrity of the housing market. Enforcement is keen on upholding the law through routine inspections and by addressing violations with significant penalties.

City Inspection and Audits

Law enforcement agencies conduct regular inspections and audits on STRs to ensure they meet the city's established standards. These regulations are critical to maintaining the balance between short-term and long-term rental availability. Unregistered properties are subject to removal from listing platforms, ensuring only compliant properties are available for rent.

Violation Penalties and Fines

STR operators in Long Beach face stringent enforcement actions when violating local regulations. Penalties can be substantial, such as the previously mentioned $20,000 fines for first offenses that have since been updated. These fines serve as a deterrent and reinforce the seriousness of abiding by STR laws.

STR Compliance Hotline

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to report potential violations through the STR Compliance Hotline. This platform facilitates the submission of complaints and fosters community involvement in monitoring short-term rental activities. The responsive nature of the complaint hotline contributes to the city's proactive approach in enforcing STR regulations.

Community Impact and Long Beach Housing in Long Beach

The regulations surrounding short-term rentals have significant repercussions on Long Beach's housing availability and community dynamics. They both preserve residential spaces for locals and create income opportunities, all while ensuring diverse neighborhoods maintain their character.

Housing Market Considerations

Long Beach’s housing market sees a direct impact from the regulation of short-term rentals (STRs). With stipulations that aim to maintain the long-term rental housing stock, the city enforces rules on rentals that last 30 consecutive days or less. These measures limit the number of properties available for short-term lodging, thereby preventing a potential decrease in long-term rental availability which could drive up rents for local residents. The city's approach seeks to strike a balance, fostering lodging opportunities without undermining the supply of affordable housing options.

Community Feedback and Influence

Community feedback plays a pivotal role in shaping the regulation of Airbnb and other short-term rentals in Long Beach. Multiple community meetings and a seven-month process of gathering input demonstrate the city’s commitment to involving residents in the decision-making process. The various regulations put forward, such as limiting hosts to two non-primary residence units and mandating hosts to carry property liability insurance, reflect a response to the community’s concerns. Such active engagement ensures that Long Beach's diverse residential neighborhoods are preserved, and that the community’s voice influences the evolving landscape of local lodging and housing opportunities.

Financial Aspects of STRs in Long Beach

Short-term rentals (STRs) in Long Beach present specific financial obligations for hosts, including various fees and taxes that are essential for compliant operation.

Fees and Taxes

In Long Beach, STR hosts are required to remit Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT) to the city. This tax is applied to guests' rental bills and then collected by the host. The current TOT rate is typically a percentage of the nightly rental price, and compliance is monitored by the city authorities. Failure to collect and remit this tax can result in penalties.

Additionally, there may be other fees associated with the operation of STRs, such as business license fees or inspection fees that ensure the rental meets safety and health regulations. Hosts are also obligated to maintain an active registration number for their listing, which must be displayed on all advertisements and rental agreements.

Annual STR Registration Costs

Each Short-term rental in Long Beach must be registered with the city, which incurs an annual application or registration fee. This registration serves as a formal acknowledgment of the STR and allows the city to maintain a database of active rentals. The cost of this fee varies and is subject to change but is generally a fixed amount paid on an annual basis. Proper registration helps to ensure that STRs are contributing to the local economy while operating within the legal framework established for such accommodations.

Platform-Specific Regulations in Long Beach

Long Beach maintains clear and focused regulations that directly affect rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Hosts using these services must adhere to specific rules to ensure compliance with local laws.

Airbnb Hosting Rules

Airbnb is not just a platform; it's a community, and as such, it imparts responsibility on its hosts, especially in Long Beach. The City of Long Beach requires Airbnb hosts to register their rental property, which includes a fee. The registration is a critical step in maintaining legitimacy and transparency within the short-term rental market. After registering, hosts are bound by the city's mandate to have a local contact person who is reachable at all times to respond to complaints within an hour.

VRBO Requirements

VRBO operates similarly to Airbnb but may have different expectations for its short-term rentals. Hosts on VRBO must ensure their listings meet the city-specific criteria. In Long Beach, restrictions on the number of guest stays and rental unit allowances are set to preserve housing stock. For instance, multi-unit buildings are subject to limitations on how many units can be rented out short-term; details of these restrictions can be found on platforms that guide Long Beach hosts. It is essential for hosts to keep abreast of these regulations and integrate them into their rental practices to avoid penalties.

Resources for Hosts and Property Owners in Long Beach

For those looking to navigate the complexities of short-term rental laws and regulations in Long Beach, obtaining accurate and up-to-date information is crucial. The city provides valuable tools that ensure compliance with local ordinances and promote a clear understanding of hosts' responsibilities.

City Portal and STR Program Webpage

The City of Long Beach has established an online City Portal, specifically designed to support short-term rental (STR) hosts and property owners. This portal serves as a comprehensive information resource, offering access to various documents and applications required for legal operation. Additionally, the STR Program Webpage offers detailed guidance on how to register a rental, adhere to regulations, and understand any changes to the STR policy. It is a vital resource for maintaining good standing as an STR operator in Long Beach.

The Access Points for the City of Long Beach's online City Portal for short-term rental (STR) hosts and property owners include registration forms, policy updates, and operational guidelines. These resources are essential for STR operators to stay informed, register their rentals, and ensure compliance with regulations, serving as a valuable tool for maintaining legal and operational standards in Long Beach.

Development Services Department Support

For more personalized assistance, one can contact the Development Services Department. This department provides help to STR operators, guiding them through the registration process, the nuances of compliance, and troubleshooting any issues that might arise. Their staff is well-versed in local regulations, ensuring hosts receive knowledgeable support.

The Development Services Department in Long Beach offers services including personalized guidance, compliance assistance, and troubleshooting and support for short-term rental (STR) operators. This assistance is designed to help hosts navigate the registration process, ensure compliance with local regulations, and address any issues that may arise during the operation of their STRs, providing essential support for successful and legally compliant hosting.

Policy Evolution and City Council Role in Long Beach

The Long Beach City Council has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of short-term rental (STR) regulations. In their efforts, they aim to balance the economic benefits of STRs with community needs and housing availability.

STR Ordinance Development

Initially, STRs operated without formal guidelines, but increasing concerns over housing affordability and neighborhood stability prompted action. The City Council responded by crafting an STR ordinance to regulate these rentals, which was influenced by both public interest and economic considerations.

Engagement with the California Coastal Commission

It is critical to include the California Coastal Commission in the discussion as its mandate to ensure coastal access for all Californians intersects with STR policy. The commission's input shapes provisions within the ordinance for coastal areas, ensuring they align with state-wide coastal access goals.

• STR Program Implementation

To ensure compliance and enforcement, the city established an STR program. It delineates the following:

- Registration requirements for hosts
- Operational standards for properties
- Limits on the number of units that can be rented short-term


The Long Beach City Council continues to review and adjust the STR program, considering the evolving needs of the city and its constituents. They actively monitor the program's impact, striving for regulations that support both economic vitality and the quality of life for Long Beach residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the regulations around short-term rentals is essential for property owners in Long Beach. This section provides clear information about permits, violations, operating conditions, and enforcement.

What are the requirements for obtaining a short-term rental permit in Long Beach?

To secure a short-term rental permit in Long Beach, hosts need to register their property with the city and pay an initial application fee of $250. A local contact person must be provided who is available 24/7 to address complaints within one hour. Long Beach Short-Term Rentals FAQs provides further guidance on the application process.

What constitutes a violation of Long Beach’s short-term rental regulations?

Violations of Long Beach’s short-term rental regulations include operating without a valid registration, not adhering to the city's guest stay policies, or failing to respond appropriately to complaints. Non-compliant properties are at risk of enforcement actions.

Are there any restrictions on the number of days a property can be listed on Airbnb in Long Beach, CA?

Currently, there are no specified restrictions on the number of days a property can be listed on Airbnb in Long Beach. Hosts should stay updated on local ordinances as regulations can evolve over time to address the changing dynamics of short-term rentals.

How does the City of Long Beach enforce short-term rental ordinances?

The City of Long Beach conducts proactive monitoring and follows up on complaints to enforce its short-term rental ordinances. Unregistered listings are subject to removal from Airbnb and other platforms. Further details can be learned from the policy description by the City of Long Beach.

What are the penalties for operating an Airbnb without a permit in Long Beach?

Operating an Airbnb without a permit in Long Beach can result in fines and the removal of the listing. Enforcement measures have been in place to ensure compliance, as indicated by informative press releases.

Can a property be used for rentals shorter than three months in Long Beach, and under what conditions?

Properties in Long Beach can be rented for stays shorter than three months as long as the host complies with the local short-term rental guidelines. This includes having a registered property and following the city's established regulations for such rentals.

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