Overview

Short-term rentals are allowed in Monterey Park, CA subject to specific regulations and permitting requirements. The City of Monterey Park operates a comprehensive short-term rental program under Monterey Park Municipal Code Chapter 21.09, which allows for both entire dwelling and single-room rentals, but explicitly prohibits rentals in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs).

Monterey Park defines short-term rentals as dwelling units (excluding hotels and motels) rented to occupants for periods shorter than 30 consecutive days. The city has implemented a structured permitting process designed to protect public health, safety, and welfare while preserving neighborhood characteristics and mitigating potential public nuisances.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Monterey Park

Step 1: Pre-Application Preparation

• Timing Requirement: At least 30 days before filing your application, you must provide written notification to all occupants of residences and businesses within 200 feet of your property
• Notification Content: Include the proposed use, your contact information, and city contact details using city-approved forms
• Documentation: Create a radius map and ownership list of all properties within the notification zone

Step 2: Complete Application Packet

• Download Application: Obtain forms from montereypark.ca.gov/1466/Starting-a-Business-in-Monterey-Park
• Property Owner Application: Only the property owner or their authorized agent may apply
• Notarization Required: Application forms and the Nuisance Response Plan must be notarized with a General All-Purpose Acknowledgement

Step 3: Obtain Required Insurance and Bonding

• Insurance: Secure homeowner's or renter's insurance specific to short-term rental operations
• Surety Bond: Obtain a $1,500 surety bond from a surety licensed in California with an A.M. Best Financial Strength Rating of at least "A-"
• Bond Conditions: Must name the City of Monterey Park as bond obligee and guarantee payment of administrative fines

Step 4: Register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

• Registration: Complete TOT registration through HdL Companies at montereypark.hdlgov.com/Home/Index/TOT
• Documentation: Provide email confirmation of registration with your application

Step 5: Submit Application

• Submission Method: Email completed application to PlanningPermitCounter@MontereyPark.CA.Gov
• Review Timeline: City review typically takes 10 working days
• City Decision: Permit issuance, denial, or request for additional information

Step 6: Compliance Monitoring

• Ongoing Requirements: Maintain compliance with all permit conditions
• Code Enforcement: City inspectors address complaints and ensure compliance
• Contact for Issues: Call (626) 307-1415 or email codecompliance@montereypark.ca.gov

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Application Documents

1. Administrative Application - Signed by property owner and notarized
2. Nuisance Response Plan - Detailed plan for addressing complaints
3. Transient Occupancy Registration Confirmation - Email confirmation from HdL
4. Proof of Insurance - Homeowner's or renter's insurance for STR
5. Surety Bond - $1,500 bond meeting city requirements
6. Indemnity Statement - Hold harmless agreement, notarized and signed
7. Radius Map and Ownership List - Properties within 200 feet
8. Affidavit of Mailing Notices - Confirmation of neighbor notifications
9. Application Fees - Per current fee schedule

Key Operational Guidelines

• Maximum Occupancy: Two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons maximum (greater numbers require justification)
• Parking Requirements: Must provide adequate on-site parking
• Noise and Nuisance Control: Must adhere to municipal noise ordinances
• Emergency Contact: Maintain 24/7 contact information for rapid response

Specific Regulations

City of Monterey Park Regulations

Monterey Park Municipal Code Chapter 21.09

• Defines short-term rentals as dwellings rented for less than 30 consecutive days
• Prohibits STRs in ADUs and JADUs
• Requires permits for all STR operations
• Establishes maximum occupancy limits: 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional persons
• Mandates neighbor notification within 200-foot radius at least 30 days before application
• Requires $1,500 surety bond
• Allows city planner to impose special permit conditions for public safety

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

• Current rate: 12% of gross rent
• Collected on all stays under 30 days
• Must be remitted monthly by the last day of the following month
• Penalty structure: 10% initial penalty plus 10% monthly additional penalty
• Interest rate: 0.5% per month
• Registration required through HdL Companies
• Online filing available at montereypark.hdlgov.com/

Enforcement and Compliance

• City inspectors investigate complaints
• Code compliance contact: (626) 307-1415
• Email: codecompliance@montereypark.ca.gov
• Unpermitted STRs receive clear steps and timelines for compliance

Monterey County Regulations (For Reference Only)

Note: The following applies to unincorporated Monterey County areas, not the City of Monterey Park

County Ordinance (Effective October 24, 2025)

• Commercial STRs capped at 4% of housing stock in unincorporated areas
• Requires permits for commercial rentals (previously unpermitted)
• Permit cost: $965, valid for 7 years
• Bans commercial event venues without permits
• Allows homestays where owner is present
• Permits renting properties 3 times per year for up to 30 days

Contact Information

City of Monterey Park - Planning Division

• Phone: (626) 301-1315
• Email: planningpermitcounter@montereypark.ca.gov
• Address: 320 West Newmark Ave, Monterey Park, CA
• Website: www.montereypark.ca.gov

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) - HdL Companies

• Phone: (626) 599-6233
• Email: MontereyParkTOT@hdlgov.com
• Online Filing: montereypark.hdlgov.com/
• Mail: City of Monterey Park TOT Processing Center, 8839 N. Cedar Ave #212, Fresno, CA 93720

Code Compliance Division

• Phone: (626) 307-1415
• Email: codecompliance@montereypark.ca.gov

Municipal Code Access

• Website: library.qcode.us/lib/monterey_park_ca/pub/municipal_code/item/title_21-chapter_21_09
• Forms: www.montereypark.ca.gov/246/Forms

Source Pages

• Monterey Park STR Permit Application: www.montereypark.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15636
• Monterey Park STR Workshop Presentation: www.montereypark.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/16812
• Monterey County STR Information: www.countyofmonterey.gov/government/departments-a-h/housing-community-development/permit-center/short-term-rentals
• SFGate County STR Article: www.sfgate.com/centralcoast/article/monterey-county-short-term-rentals-20827910.php
• HdL TOT Registration Portal: montereypark.hdlgov.com/Home/Index/TOT

This guide provides comprehensive information for operating a compliant short-term rental business in Monterey Park, California. Always verify current requirements with city authorities before proceeding with any STR investment or operation.