Short-Term Rental Investment Guide: Highland, California

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Highland, CA?

Short-term rentals are allowed in Highland, CA, as no specific restrictions were found in the Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40 General Development Standards. The city does not appear to have specific short-term rental regulations in place, which means that state-level California laws and general zoning requirements apply. Investors should note that while short-term rentals are permitted under current regulations, this could change as cities often update their ordinances.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Highland, CA

Step 1: Property Evaluation and Zoning Compliance

• Verify that your property is located in a zone that allows residential use
• Confirm that short-term rentals (typically defined as rentals less than 30 days) are permitted under current zoning
• Review Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40 General Development Standards for any relevant development standards
• Ensure compliance with building codes, fire safety regulations, and habitability standards

Step 2: Business Registration and Permits

• Register your business with the City of Highland
• Obtain any necessary business licenses
• Secure appropriate insurance coverage
• Comply with tax registration requirements including Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

Step 3: Property Preparation

• Ensure all safety features are in place (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers)
• Meet accessibility requirements if applicable
• Comply with lighting, parking, and other development standards outlined in Chapter 16.40
• Consider noise mitigation measures

Step 4: Operational Setup

• Establish booking platforms compliance
• Create emergency contact procedures
• Develop guest screening and house rules
• Implement cleaning and maintenance protocols

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documents

• Business License: Required for operating any business within Highland
• Transient Occupancy Tax Registration: Required for accommodations rented for less than 30 days
• Property Insurance: Liability coverage specifically for short-term rentals
• Safety Certifications: As required by California state law for lodging establishments

Permits and Licenses

• Building Permits: May be required for any structural modifications
• Fire Safety Clearance: Required for guest accommodation properties
• Health Department Permits: If applicable to your specific operation

Compliance Guidelines

• California Health and Safety Code: Governs lodging establishment requirements
• California Civil Code Section 1950.5: Security deposit handling
• Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40: General development standards that may apply
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Accessibility compliance if applicable

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Highland Regulations

No specific short-term rental regulations were identified in the Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40 General Development Standards. However, the following general regulations may apply:

Accessory Structures (16.40.030)

• Any accessory structures must meet development standards for the primary structure
• Detached accessory structures may be subject to size and height limitations

Parking Requirements (16.40.210)

• Must comply with Chapter 16.52 parking standards
• Off-street parking must be provided for guests

Fences and Walls (16.40.100)

• Fence height restrictions apply (4 feet in front yards, up to 6 feet in side and rear yards)
• Safety considerations for guest properties

Lighting (16.40.160)

• Exterior lighting requirements for safety and security
• Restrictions on lighting that may affect neighboring properties

San Bernardino County Regulations

• County health department may have additional requirements for lodging facilities
• Fire safety regulations may apply depending on property type and location

California State Regulations

Assembly Bill 3182 (2020)

• Requires cities to allow short-term rentals unless specific restrictions are adopted
• Establishes baseline requirements for short-term rental operations
• Requires registration with local jurisdictions

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

• California Revenue and Taxation Code requires collection of TOT for accommodations under 30 days
• Rates vary by jurisdiction but typically range from 8-14%
• Must be collected and remitted to the local jurisdiction

Safety Requirements

• California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3: Habitability standards
• Fire safety requirements per California Building Code
• Accessibility compliance if applicable

Guest Rights and Protections

• Security deposit handling per California Civil Code Section 1950.5
• Guest privacy rights
• Anti-discrimination requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Highland

Community Development Department

• Phone: (909) 864-8731
• Email: commdev@highlandcity.org
• Website: www.highlandcity.org
• Address: 27215 Base Line, Highland, CA 92346

Planning Division

• Phone: (909) 864-8731 ext. 200
• Services: Zoning compliance, permits, development standards

Building and Safety Division

• Phone: (909) 864-8731 ext. 100
• Services: Building permits, safety inspections, code compliance

County Authority

San Bernardino County

• Code Enforcement: (760) 995-8140
• Environmental Health: (800) 782-4264
• Fire Department: (909) 387-8400

State Authority

California Department of Consumer Affairs

• Website: www.dca.ca.gov
• Phone: (916) 445-1254

Important Considerations for STR Investors

Regulatory Risks

• Dynamic Landscape: Cities frequently update STR regulations
• Zoning Changes: Future zoning modifications could affect STR operations
• Tax Changes: Transient Occupancy Tax rates and collection requirements may change

Operational Considerations

• Neighborhood Relations: Maintain good relationships with neighbors
• Property Management: Consider professional management for consistent operations
• Market Analysis: Evaluate local demand and competition
• Financial Planning: Account for tax obligations and regulatory compliance costs

Due Diligence Checklist

• ✅ Verify zoning compliance
• ✅ Confirm no HOA restrictions prohibiting STRs
• ✅ Assess insurance needs and coverage
• ✅ Review local tax requirements
• ✅ Understand guest screening requirements
• ✅ Establish safety protocols
• ✅ Plan for maintenance and cleaning operations

Links to Source Pages

Primary Source Document:

• Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40: General Development Standards
• Link: www.codepublishing.com/CA/Highland/html/Highland16/Highland1640.html

California State Resources:

• California Department of Consumer Affairs: www.dca.ca.gov
• California Legislative Information: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov

Local Resources:

• City of Highland Official Website: www.highlandcity.org

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available information from Highland Municipal Code Chapter 16.40. Regulations may have changed since the last update. Always consult with local authorities and qualified legal counsel before starting a short-term rental operation. Investors should verify current regulations and requirements directly with the City of Highland before making investment decisions.