Half Moon Bay
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Half moon bay
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STR Regulations for Half moon bay
Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations in Half Moon Bay, CA
Overview of STR Allowance
Short-term rentals are ALLOWED in Half Moon Bay, with specific regulations and limitations. As of August 2023, the city has implemented a comprehensive Short-Term Rental Ordinance to balance visitor accommodations with housing preservation.
Eligibility and Zoning
Permitted Locations
- Residential zoning districts
- Mixed-use developments in:
- Commercial-Downtown
- Commercial-General
- Commercial-Visitor Serving
Prohibited Locations
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Mobile homes
- Multi-family developments with 4+ units
- Properties with affordable housing units
- Farmworker housing
Types of Short-Term Rentals
-
Hosted STR
- Host occupies property during guest stay
- No limit on rental nights
-
Unhosted STR
- No host present during guest stay
- Limited to 60 nights per calendar year
Registration and Permitting Process
Required Documents
- Short-Term Rental Application
- Business License
- Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Registration
- Proof of primary residency
Key Requirements
- Only one STR property per operator
- Property owner must reside at the property for at least 6 months per year
- Written owner consent required if operator is not the property owner
- Local contact person must be available for emergencies
Fees and Taxes
- Business License fee
- Annual STR registration fee
- Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
- Airbnb collects and remits TOT on behalf of hosts
Application Steps
- Verify eligibility
- Obtain business license
- Register for TOT
- Complete Short-Term Rental Application
- Pay required fees
- Receive STR permit
Contact Information
City of Half Moon Bay
- Joe Butcher, Community Preservation Specialist
- Email: JButcher@hmbcity.com
- Phone: (650) 726-8285
City Hall
- Address: 501 Main St., Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
- Phone: (650) 726-8910
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:30AM - 5:00PM
Useful Links
Important Recommendations
- Thoroughly review the complete Short-Term Rental Ordinance
- Consult with local authorities for specific questions
- Consider legal advice for complex scenarios
Disclaimer: Regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with the City of Half Moon Bay.
Photos of Half moon bay
Overview of Half moon bay
Half Moon Bay is a coastal city in San Mateo County, California, known for its scenic beauty and charming small-town atmosphere. With a population of around 12,000 residents, Half Moon Bay is situated approximately 30 miles south of San Francisco, making it a convenient destination for visitors coming from a major urban center.
The city boasts a range of attractions that make it appealing for short-term rentals. Notable landmarks include the beautiful Half Moon Bay State Beach, offering miles of sandy shores and opportunities for outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, and hiking along the Coastal Trail. More information can be found on the California State Parks website.
Another significant attraction is the renowned Mavericks Beach, famous for its big wave surfing, which draws surf enthusiasts from around the world. For those interested in horticulture, the Half Moon Bay Nursery provides a delightful experience with a wide array of plants and flowers.
The city's historical sites also add to its charm. The Half Moon Bay Jail, now a museum, offers insight into local history and early 20th-century law enforcement.
Given its proximity to San Francisco, combined with its natural beauty and array of attractions, Half Moon Bay offers an attractive setting for short-term rentals. Visitors can enjoy a laid-back coastal environment while staying within easy reach of a major metropolitan area.