Huntington Beach
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Huntington beach
Market Saturation Index
STR Regulations for Huntington beach
Short-Term Rental Regulations in Huntington Beach, CA
Overview
Short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in Huntington Beach with significant restrictions. The city adopted a highly regulated ordinance in 2021 after previously prohibiting such rentals.
Current STR Landscape
- Total Permitted STRs: Over 200
- Annual Transient Occupancy Tax Generated: Nearly $1 million
- Unpermitted STRs Declined from 867 (2020) to 135 (2023)
- Concentration: Primarily in downtown and coastal zones
Rental Types and Zones
Zones
- Zone 1: City areas excluding Sunset Beach
- Zone 2: Sunset Beach
Rental Permitted Types
- Hosted/Owner-Occupied STRs: Allowed in both Zone 1 and Zone 2
- Unhosted STRs: Currently only allowed in Sunset Beach (Zone 2)
Permit Requirements
Initial Permit
- Application Fee: $657 (initial two years)
- Renewal Fee: $341 annually
- One STR per property (single-family, duplex, triplex)
- Up to 3 STRs on properties with 4+ units (condos/townhomes)
Application Process
- Online application through HB ACA portal
- Must provide:
- Local contact person information
- Certificate of occupancy
- Signed compliance statement
Key Regulations
- 24/7 Local Contact Person required
- Must respond to complaints within 1 hour
- No commercial events allowed
- Must comply with Noise Ordinance
- Collect and remit:
- 10% Transient Occupancy Tax
- 6% Tourism Business Improvement District assessment
Enforcement
- 3 violations within 12 months results in permit revocation
- $1,000 fine per day for violations
- Complaints handled same-day or next-day
- Complaint hotline with live operator
Future Considerations
Potential program expansions under discussion:
- Enhanced online portal
- Stricter violation reporting
- STR permit cap
- Wait list for new permits
- Regular compliance audits
Contact Information
- Planning and Zoning Counter: (714) 536-5271
- Email: community.development@surfcity-hb.org
- Online Portal: https://engage.huntingtonbeachca.gov/CitizenAccess/Default.aspx
Recommended Next Steps for Potential Hosts
- Review full ordinance details
- Prepare required documentation
- Complete online application
- Ensure compliance with all regulations
Disclaimer
Regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with the City of Huntington Beach.
Photos of Huntington beach
Overview of Huntington beach
Huntington Beach, California, is a coastal city located in Orange County, widely known for its scenic beaches and surfing culture. As of the latest census, Huntington Beach has a population of approximately 200,000 residents. The city is situated about 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles, providing relatively convenient access to the amenities of a major city while maintaining a relaxed, beach-town atmosphere.
Huntington Beach is often referred to as "Surf City USA," thanks to its long-standing surfing heritage and ideal wave conditions. A centerpiece of this reputation is the Huntington Beach Pier, one of the West Coast's longest public piers, extending 1,850 feet into the Pacific Ocean. The pier is a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and surfing, and it offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. More information can be found here.
Another significant landmark is Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a large wetlands area that provides a habitat for over 200 bird species and various marine life. This reserve is a favorite among bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for tranquil walking trails. Details about the reserve can be accessed here.
Huntington Beach also boasts several family-friendly attractions, including the Huntington Central Park, which is the largest city-owned park in Orange County. The park features sprawling green lawns, sports facilities, playgrounds, and the Shipley Nature Center. For further details, you can visit this link.
For those interested in the arts and local history, the Huntington Beach Art Center and the International Surfing Museum offer a peek into the cultural fabric of the city. More information about the art center can be found here, and the surfing museum details are available here.
Given its favorable location, vibrant cultural scene, and abundance of recreational opportunities, Huntington Beach presents itself as an attractive destination for short-term rentals, catering to tourists seeking a blend of relaxing beach experiences and city amenities.