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

Direct Answer: San Dimas, California does not currently have specific short-term rental (STR) ordinances or regulations that directly govern properties like Airbnb or VRBO rentals.

This conclusion is based on a comprehensive review of the city's official planning documents, FAQ sections, and municipal information. The city's Planning Division FAQ page contains detailed information about various permitting requirements, building codes, and zoning regulations, but notably lacks any specific provisions for short-term rentals.

However, investors must understand that the absence of specific STR regulations does not mean these rentals are unregulated. Properties operating as short-term rentals in San Dimas are still subject to:

1. General Zoning Regulations: Properties must comply with the underlying zoning classification of their location
2. Building and Safety Codes: All properties must meet current building, electrical, plumbing, and safety standards
3. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Requirements: Hosts must collect and remit TOT to the city
4. Homeowners Association Rules: If the property is subject to HOA restrictions, those rules remain enforceable

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in San Dimas

Step 1: Property Research and Zoning Verification

Before acquiring or converting a property for STR use, conduct thorough due diligence:

• Verify Zoning Classification: Contact the Planning Department at 909.394.6250 with the property address to confirm zoning requirements
• Review HOA Restrictions: If applicable, obtain and review HOA covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) for STR prohibitions
• Assess Building Standards: Ensure the property meets all building code requirements for the intended use

Step 2: Business Registration and Tax Compliance

• Business License: Register for a business license through the Administrative Services Department (business license information available at the city website)
• TOT Registration: Register for Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remittance (typically 10% of rental rates)
• Tax Planning: Establish proper record-keeping systems for income and expense tracking

Step 3: Property Preparation and Safety Compliance

• Building Permits: Obtain any necessary permits for modifications or improvements
• Safety Inspections: Ensure compliance with fire, electrical, and safety codes
• Insurance: Secure appropriate liability and property insurance coverage

Step 4: Operational Setup

• Local Management: Establish local contact arrangements for guest services and emergency response
• Platform Registration: Create accounts with major hosting platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.)
• Marketing Preparation: Develop property listings with professional photography and accurate descriptions

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Business Licensing

• Business License: Required through the Administrative Services Department
• Online Business License Search: Available through the city's business license portal

Tax Registration

• Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Registration: Required for properties renting for 30 days or less
• TOT Rate: Approximately 10% of rental rates (including cleaning fees)
• Collection and Remittance: Hosts must collect TOT from guests and remit to the city

Building and Safety Compliance

• Current Adopted Codes (2022 California Code Cycle):
  • 2022 California Building Code
  • 2022 California Plumbing Code
  • 2022 California Electrical Code
  • 2022 California Mechanical Code
  • 2022 California Energy Code
  • City of San Dimas Municipal Code

Potential Building Permits

The following work may require permits:

• Storage sheds exceeding 120 square feet
• Fences greater than 6 feet in height
• Retaining walls
• New windows (including replacements)
• Re-roofing projects
• Electrical work (beyond changing plugs or lights)
• Water heater replacement or installation
• Furnace replacement or installation
• Gas, water, or waste pipe work
• Pool, spa, or hot tub installation

Health and Safety Standards

Properties must comply with:

• Fire safety regulations
• Electrical code requirements
• Plumbing standards
• Energy efficiency requirements
• Accessibility standards where applicable

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations

San Dimas does not currently have specific short-term rental ordinances. Properties operate under general municipal codes and zoning regulations.

County-Level Regulations (Los Angeles County)

While San Dimas is an incorporated city, it falls within Los Angeles County. County health and safety regulations may apply to STR properties, particularly regarding:

• Septic system requirements (for properties outside sewer service areas)
• Environmental health standards
• Public health regulations

State-Level Regulations (California)

STR operators must comply with California state requirements:

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Restrictions

• ADUs created under recent state laws (AB 68 and AB 881) cannot be rented for fewer than 30 days
• This restriction applies to most ministerial ADUs, including those up to 800 square feet

Tax Requirements

• Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) collection and remittance
• State income tax reporting for STR income
• Potential requirements for platform collaboration agreements

Fair Housing and Consumer Protection

• Compliance with fair housing laws
• Truth-in-advertising requirements
• Consumer protection regulations

Zoning Compliance

Properties must comply with their underlying zoning classification. Investors should verify:

• Whether STR use is permitted in the property's zoning district
• Parking requirements for the zoning classification
• Setback and development standards
• Home business restrictions that may apply

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contacts

City of San Dimas - Community Development Department

• Address: 245 E Bonita Ave, San Dimas, CA 91773
• Main Phone: 909.394.6200
• Planning Division: 909.394.6250
• Building and Safety Division: 909.394.6260

Business Licensing

Administrative Services - Finance Division

• Phone: 909.394.6200
• Information available at: Business License Page

Code Compliance

Code Compliance Hotline: 909.542.2502

• For reporting concerns or violations
• Available through MySanDimas online reporting system

Municipal Code Access

• Online Municipal Code: Available at San Dimas Municipal Code
• Planning Commission Meetings: First and third Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers

Source Pages

Official City Sources

• San Dimas Planning Division FAQ
• San Dimas Municipal Code
• San Dimas Business License Information
• Active Business License Search

Third-Party Information

• Checkmate Rentals - San Dimas STR Information (Note: This is private company information and should be verified with official city sources)

Important Considerations for Investors

Regulatory Monitoring

Given the rapidly evolving nature of STR regulations in California, investors should:

• Monitor city council meetings and planning commission agendas for STR-related discussions
• Stay informed about state legislation affecting STRs
• Consider that future regulations may be implemented

Due Diligence Recommendations

• Conduct comprehensive property inspections before purchase
• Review all applicable HOA documents and restrictions
• Verify current and historical compliance with building codes
• Assess the property's suitability for short-term rental use

Risk Management

• Maintain comprehensive insurance coverage
• Establish clear operational procedures for guest management
• Implement robust financial record-keeping systems
• Consider professional property management services

Disclaimer: This guide is based on information available as of the research date. STR regulations are subject to change at the city, county, and state levels. Investors should verify current requirements with official city sources and consider consulting with local real estate and legal professionals before proceeding with any short-term rental investment.