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

Yes, short-term rentals ARE explicitly allowed in Visalia, California. The City of Visalia has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for short-term rentals that took effect on December 6, 2023. As of that date, property owners can legally operate STRs within the city limits, provided they obtain all required permits, licenses, and comply with all operational standards set forth in Visalia Municipal Code Chapter 17.32.166.

Visalia defines a short-term rental as a dwelling unit, or any portion of a dwelling unit, used for residing, lodging, sleeping, or other occupancy purposes for stays of less than thirty (30) consecutive days, excluding City-approved hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and time-share properties.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Visalia

Step-by-Step Process

1. Review HOA Rules and Bylaws: Before applying, property owners must review their Homeowners Association Rules and Bylaws along with the Codes, Covenants and Restrictions (CCR's) recorded against the property to ensure STRs are permitted. The city will revoke permits for properties operating in violation of their own HOA rules.

2. Complete Short-Term Rental Permit Application: Obtain and complete the official STR Permit Application, which requires notarization of signatures on page 2.

3. Apply for Business Tax Certificate: Submit the Business Tax Application along with the STR permit application (unless you already have a valid Business Tax Certificate for the STR).

4. Submit Applications: Mail the original applications to or deliver them in person to the Business Tax window at City Hall West.

5. Await Processing: The typical processing time is 10-15 days after a complete application is received.

6. Register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): Within 30 days after commencing business, register for TOT collection and monthly remittance.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documents and Permits

1. Short-Term Rental Permit Application

   • Must be notarized
   • Requires original signatures on page 2
   • Only one application allowed per parcel

2. Business Tax Certificate Application

   • Must accompany STR application unless already held
   • Semi-annual payment required (January and July)
   • Certificate must be posted conspicuously on premises

3. Grant Deed

   • Required to prove ownership
   • Must be submitted with application

4. Agent Authorization (if applicable)

   • Notarized authorization demonstrating applicant as authorized agent
   • Required if applying on behalf of legal entity listed on Grant Deed

Key Requirements

• Owner Must Apply: Only property owners can receive STR permits
• Single STR Per Parcel: Only one STR permitted per parcel in residentially zoned districts
• 24/7 Contact Availability: Owner or designated agent must be available 24/7 at provided phone number
• Designated Agent: Must be on premises within 45 minutes if requested by enforcement officer

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Visalia Regulations

1. Operational Standards: Must comply with all operational standards contained in Visalia Municipal Code Section 17.32.166(B)(1) through (20)

2. Business Tax Requirements:

   • Semi-annual payment schedule (January and July)
   • Certificate must be posted in conspicuous location
   • Based on business type and/or annual gross revenue

3. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT):

   • 10% tax imposed on room rates for stays less than 30 days
   • Collection and monthly remittance required
   • Held in trust for the city until paid

4. Advertising Requirements:

   • Permit number must be included in all advertisements
   • Applies to all online platforms and print advertising

Zoning Restrictions

• Only permitted in residential zones
• Interior dwelling units only (no street parking for guests)
• Compliance with existing noise ordinances and quiet hours required

Occupancy Limitations

The city has established occupancy limits for STRs, with specific attention to room occupancy standards.

Enforcement and Penalties

STR Ordinance Violations

• First violation: $100 fine
• Second violation: $200 fine
• Additional violations: $500 per day, with each day continuing to be considered a separate offense

Additional Enforcement

• Business Tax and TOT violations subject to separate penalties and enforcement actions
• City may take enforcement action to ensure compliance
• Non-compliant properties may face permit revocation

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Visalia - Primary Contacts

Main City Contact:

• Phone: (559) 713-4444
• Address: 315 E. Acequia Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291

Business Tax Division:

• Phone: (559) 713-4326
• Email: businesstax@visalia.city
• Hours: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Location: City Hall West, 707 West Acequia, Visalia CA 93291

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Division:

• Phone: (559) 713-4352
• Email: TOT@visalia.city
• Location: City Hall West, 707 W. Acequia Avenue

Planning Department:

• Phone: (559) 713-4003
• Email: Josh.Dan@visalia.city

Application Submission Location

Business Tax Window:

• Address: City Hall West, 707 West Acequia, Visalia CA 93291
• Hours: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Methods: In person or mail original application with payment

Source Pages and Links

Official City Documents

1. City of Visalia Short-Term Rentals Page

2. Short-Term Rental Permit Application

3. Business Tax Application

4. STR Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Handout

5. Short-Term Rental Ordinance

6. City of Visalia Business Tax Webpage

7. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Webpage

8. STR Non-Operation Form

Reference Information

• Airbnb Help Center - Visalia, CA
• Fresnoland Article on STR Ordinance Adoption

Important Notes for STR Investors

• The regulatory framework is relatively new (effective December 2023), so staying current with any amendments is crucial
• Processing times typically range from 10-15 days for complete applications
• Properties must maintain compliance with HOA rules in addition to city regulations
• The city reserves the right to revoke permits for violations, with no refunds of fees paid
• Appeal process is available for denied applications (must be filed within 10 business days)

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current STR landscape in Visalia, CA. Investors should regularly check the official city website for any updates or changes to regulations and requirements.