Comprehensive Guide to Operating an Airbnb or Short-Term Rental in Del Mar, California.
Zoning Regulations
Permitted Zones
Short-term rental operations are only permitted in the Residential-Commercial (RC) zone and the Visitor Commercial (VC) zone. STRs are not allowed in purely residential zones. This means that if your property is located in a residential zone, you would not be able to legally operate it as an STR. To see if your property or perspective property falls within one of these zones, you can use Del Mar Public Map Viewer.
Using the Map Viewer:
Once the map loads, you can zoom in and out to focus on specific areas.
Use the layer options to display zoning information.
Look for the color-coded designations for RC (Residential-Commercial) and VC (Visitor-Commercial) zones.
Pending Regulations
New regulations are expected to be enacted through amendments to the Del Mar Municipal Code and Local Coastal Program. These regulations are still pending final approval and certification by the Coastal Commission, which is anticipated in late 2025.
Registration and Permits
Voluntary Registry
The City of Del Mar has launched a voluntary registry for short-term rentals to determine the actual number of existing STR units. Owners of STRs are highly encouraged to register their properties. This registry is not used for code enforcement purposes.
Mandatory Registration
Operators of existing short-term rentals must register their units by December 31, 2024. This registration involves submitting a self-certification document attesting that the unit complies with all short-term rental regulations and applicable laws, rules, and regulations relating to life safety.
Permit Application
Once the new ordinance takes effect, property owners will need to apply for a short-term rental permit. The application period will open upon final certification by the Coastal Commission. The ordinance will establish protocols for permit issuance, operations, payment of transient occupancy taxes, and enforcement.
Additional Requirements
Primary Residence Requirement
Owners must agree to occupy the units for at least half of the year as their primary residence. This requirement aims to ensure that STRs do not significantly reduce the availability of long-term housing.
Coastal Development Permit
In some areas, a coastal development permit may be required. However, if the STR is contained entirely within or attached to an existing single dwelling unit, it may be exempt from this requirement.
Business License and Taxes
Many jurisdictions, including Del Mar, require owners or operators of STRs to obtain a business license before operating. Additionally, hosts are required to collect a transient occupancy tax for each overnight stay and pay that tax to the city.
Conclusion
To operate a single-family home as an Airbnb in Del Mar, California, you will need to ensure that your property is located in a zone where STRs are permitted (RC or VC zones). You must register your property and comply with the upcoming regulations, including obtaining a short-term rental permit and possibly a coastal development permit. Additionally, you will need to obtain a business license and comply with tax collection requirements. The new regulations are expected to be finalized by late 2025, so staying updated with the latest information is crucial.
For further information or assistance, you can visit the City of Del Mar’s Information STR Information Portal. You can also contact the Planning & Community Development Department at +1 (858) 755-9313. Their office is located at 1050 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014.
Disclaimer: Please note that this is not legal advice. We have compiled a summary from multiple sources to simplify and summarize how to comply with local ordinances, and state and federal laws. Please consult legal council or contact the municipality, as outlined above.
