Are short-term rentals still an option in Marin and Sonoma Counties?

Are short-term rentals still an option in Marin and Sonoma Counties? With changing regulations and increasing restrictions, many homeowners and investors are wondering whether they can still legally operate an Airbnb or VRBO here. If you're considering getting into the short-term rental market in this area, this article is for you!

Let's start with the big picture. Both Marin and Sonoma Counties have been tightening regulations on short-term rentals in recent years with the goal of balancing tourism with local housing needs. Some areas have outright bans, while others require strict permitting and licenses. 

In Sonoma County, short-term rentals are subject to zoning laws and require permits. The county distinguishes between vacation rentals and hosted rentals—meaning whether or not the owner is on-site. In some areas, new short-term rental permits are not being issued at all due to local moratoriums. Cities like Sonoma and Healdsburg have additional restrictions, including limits on the number of nights per year a home can be rented.

Marin County has some of the strictest regulations in the Bay Area. In unincorporated Marin, short-term rentals are heavily restricted, and in many cases, new permits are not available. Towns like Sausalito and Mill Valley have additional rules, including occupancy limits and permit requirements. If you’re considering a short-term rental in Marin, it’s crucial to check local city and county guidelines before making any investment.

So, if you're looking to buy a home for a short-term rental, picking the right location is crucial.

In Marin County, Novato makes it easy with a simple registration process, while Stinson Beach and Dillon Beach allow short term rentals but have permit limits.

In Sonoma County, Petaluma allows whole-home rentals for up to 90 days a year, and Sebastopol caps them at 30. Unincorporated areas offer more options.The coastal region of Sonoma County offers the most flexibility. As of 2024, all single-family homes in this area can be used as vacation rentals, but both a license and a permit are required.

You may also want to consider alternative rental strategies. Mid-term rentals, like 30-day stays for traveling professionals, may be a more viable option than starting a new short-term rental.

Short-term rentals can still be a great investment—but only if you navigate the rules correctly. If you're thinking about buying a property for short-term or mid-term rental in Marin or Sonoma Counties, let’s chat! Drop a comment below or reach out to me directly. And if you found this video helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe. Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next video!