Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Rancho Cordova, CA. According to the Rancho Cordova Municipal Code Chapter 23.310 (Residential Zoning Districts), Short Term Vacation Rentals are permitted ("P" designation) in all residential zoning districts throughout the city. However, it's important to understand that Rancho Cordova operates under Sacramento County's regulatory framework for short-term rentals, as the city is located within unincorporated Sacramento County territory.

The regulatory structure is clear: STRs are permitted as an accessory use to primary residential occupancy, with specific requirements governing their operation to ensure compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in This Market

Step 1: Determine Property Eligibility

Before proceeding, ensure your property meets the fundamental requirements:

• Primary Residence Requirement: You or a long-term renter must live at the property for at least six (6) months out of the year
• Zoning Compliance: Your property must be located in a residential zoning district (all residential zones in Rancho Cordova permit STRs)
• ADU Restrictions: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) constructed after January 1, 2020, cannot be used for short-term rentals

Step 2: Application Process

Important: Sacramento County requires all STR permit applications to be submitted through the designated online platform:

1. Visit RentalScape: Access the application portal at https://sacramento-ca-str.deckard.com/
2. Complete Application: Submit both the Short-Term Rental Permit and Business License applications simultaneously
3. Review Requirements: Before applying, thoroughly review the Short-Term Rental Permit FAQ Handout to ensure qualification

Step 3: Understand Financial Commitments

• Total Application Fee: $452.66 (nonrefundable)
  • Includes Short-Term Rental Permit application fee
  • Includes Business License application fee
  • No charge for TOT Registration
• Tax Obligations: Plan for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) remittance requirements

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Requirements:

1. Short-Term Rental Permit (STRP) - through Sacramento County
2. Business License - processed simultaneously with STR permit
3. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Registration - no additional fee

Supporting Documentation:

While the specific document list isn't detailed in the provided content, applicants should be prepared to provide:

• Proof of primary residency (owner or long-term tenant)
• Property ownership or lease documentation
• ADU construction date verification (if applicable)
• Emergency contact information
• Property safety compliance documentation

Key Guidelines:

• Stay Duration: Rentals must be for 29 days or less
• Accessory Use Requirement: STR must remain accessory to full-time occupancy
• Primary Use Prohibition: Under no circumstances shall STR services become the primary use of the property
• Occupancy Restrictions: Any approved permits prior to February 2, 2023, limit guest occupancy to adults over 18; minors are not included in these restrictions

Specific Regulations by Jurisdiction

City of Rancho Cordova Regulations:

• Zoning Compliance: STRs are permitted in all residential zoning districts (RR, ER, RD-1 through RD-30, MDR, HDR, RMH)
• Reference Codes: Operations must comply with RCMC Section 4.06.005 and 16.20.1215
• Rental Housing Program: Properties may be subject to periodic safety inspections under the city's rental housing inspection program

Sacramento County Regulations:

• Permit Requirement: Mandatory STR permit for all short-term rental operations
• Primary Residence: Must be owner or long-term renter's primary residence (6+ months annually)
• ADU Restrictions: Post-2020 ADUs ineligible for STR use
• Application Process: Mandatory use of RentalScape online platform
• Fee Structure: $452.66 nonrefundable application fee

State of California Regulations:

The provided content references state-level regulations but doesn't detail specific requirements. Operators should ensure compliance with:

• California Health and Safety Code requirements
• State tax obligations
• ADA compliance requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Sacramento County Planning and Environmental Review (Primary Authority)

• Email: sacplan@saccounty.gov
• Website: https://planning.saccounty.net/applicants/Pages/Short-Term-Rental-Permits.aspx
• Application Portal: https://sacramento-ca-str.deckard.com/

City of Rancho Cordova Neighborhood Services

• Phone: 916.851.8770
• Email: NeighborhoodServices@CityofRanchoCordova.org
• Address:
  • City of Rancho Cordova
  • 2729 Prospect Park Drive
  • Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
• Main Phone: 916.851.8700

Important Links to Source Pages

1. Sacramento County STR Permits: https://planning.saccounty.net/applicants/Pages/Short-Term-Rental-Permits.aspx
2. STR Permit Application Portal: https://sacramento-ca-str.deckard.com/
3. Short-Term Rental FAQ Handout: https://planning.saccounty.net/applicants/Documents/Short_Term_Rentals_Handout_v6.1.pdf
4. Rancho Cordova Municipal Code - Residential Zoning: https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/RanchoCordova/html/RanchoCordova23/RanchoCordova23310.html
5. Rancho Cordova Rental Housing Program: https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/departments/community-development/neighborhood-services/rental-housing-program

Compliance and Renewal Information

Ongoing Compliance Requirements:

• Maintain primary residence status
• Ensure STR remains accessory use
• Comply with all local zoning and municipal code requirements
• Submit to periodic inspections as required
• Remit transient occupancy taxes as required

Renewal Process:

• All permit renewals must be submitted through the RentalScape platform
• Renewal reminders are sent approximately 30 days before expiration
• Maintain updated contact information to ensure receipt of renewal notices

This guide provides a comprehensive foundation for operating a compliant short-term rental business in Rancho Cordova, California. Always verify current requirements with the official authorities before making investment decisions.