Is it Allowed?

Yes, short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in Norwalk, California. However, there are no specific city-level regulations for short-term rentals. Investors are subject to general zoning laws and must comply with state and county-level requirements.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Norwalk

Starting an STR in Norwalk is straightforward but requires diligence. Since there are no specific local ordinances, the process primarily involves ensuring compliance with broader regulations.

1. Verify Zoning Compliance: Ensure your property is located in a zoning district that permits short-term rentals. Most residential areas allow lodging, but confirming this with the city's Planning Division is crucial. Single-family homes, apartments, and other dwelling units are generally acceptable, but you must verify that "lodging" is a permitted use on the specific property.
2. Secure the Property: Acquire or lease a property suitable for short-term rental.
3. Prepare for State and County Taxes: Norwalk does not impose a local Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). However, you are required to collect and remit the California state sales tax (7.75%) and Los Angeles County's TOT (generally 11% for unincorporated areas, but this can vary; verify with the County). You will need to register with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) to collect sales tax. Contact the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector for TOT registration and remittance guidelines. [Checkmate Rentals confirms these tax obligations for the area].

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

There are no city-issued permits or licenses required to operate a short-term rental in Norwalk. However, you must adhere to the following:

• Zoning Clearance: Although not a formal permit, verifying zoning compliance with the Planning Division is highly recommended.
• State Tax Registration: You must register with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) to obtain a seller's permit and collect state sales tax.
• County Tax Registration: You must register with the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector to collect and remit the county's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT).
• General Property Maintenance: The property must comply with all applicable health, safety, and building codes.

There is no local business license required solely for STR operation.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Due to the absence of city-specific regulations, investors must look to state, county, and federal guidelines.

City of Norwalk

There are no specific short-term rental regulations. All STRs are subject to general zoning ordinances and property codes. Hosts are responsible for ensuring their property use is permitted.

Los Angeles County

While Norwalk is an independent city, the broader county regulations primarily concern tax collection. The most significant obligation is the collection and remittance of the Los Angeles County TOT. The rate and any applicable rules should be verified directly with the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector.

State of California

Hosts must comply with California tax laws, including collecting and remitting state sales tax through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). Hosts must also comply with the California Health and Safety Code and other relevant state regulations governing lodging.

Orange County (for reference; NOT applicable to Norwalk)

For reference, Orange County does regulate STRs within its unincorporated areas. These regulations include permit requirements, parking restrictions, and occupancy limits. These rules do not apply to Norwalk as it is an incorporated city within Los Angeles County. You can find the Orange County regulations here.

Contact Information

For general zoning inquiries and to confirm that an STR use is permitted at your property, contact the City of Norwalk's Planning Division.

• Planning Division
  • Phone: (562) 929-5744
  • Email: planning@norwalkca.gov
  • Website: Planning and Zoning

Links to Source Pages

• BuildYourBnb. "Norwalk Airbnb / Short Term Rental Regulations." https://www.buildyourbnb.com/us-airbnb-and-short-term-rental-regulations/norwalk
• Checkmate Rentals. "Airbnb Management in Norwalk, California." https://www.checkmaterentals.com/airbnb-management/norwalk-california
• County of Orange Public Works. "Short-Term Rentals Regulations." https://ocds.ocpublicworks.com/sites/ocpwocds/files/2022-06/Short_Term_%20Handout%206_14_2022.pdf