Watsonville
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STR Regulations for Watsonville
Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations in Watsonville, CA
Overview
Short-term rentals ARE allowed in Watsonville, California, with specific regulations and permit requirements in place.
Permit Requirements
Permit Types
- Vacation Rental Permit
- Allows rental of entire dwelling unit
- Hosted Rental Permit
- Allows rental of 1-2 bedrooms while owner is present
Key Restrictions
- Short-term rentals are NOT allowed in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Must comply with City's Noise Ordinance
- Possible parking regulations may apply
Getting Started
Steps to Establish a Short-Term Rental
- Verify property eligibility
- Apply for appropriate permit from Watsonville Community Development Department
- Pay required permit fees
- Obtain Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate
- Ensure compliance with all local regulations
Financial Considerations
- Permit fees vary based on unit size and type
- Collect and submit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
- Potential additional costs for inspections or HOA approvals
Additional Guidelines
- Parking regulations may be location-specific
- Must adhere to local noise ordinances
- Potential primary residence requirements (confirm with city)
- HOA approval may be necessary for some properties
Contact Information
Watsonville Community Development Department Phone: (831) 768-3100 Website: https://www.watsonville.gov
Important Resources
- City of Watsonville Short-Term Rental Program
- Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Information
- Municipal Code - Noise Ordinance
- ADU Ordinance
Disclaimer
Regulations can change. Always verify current requirements with the city directly before establishing a short-term rental.
Recommended Next Steps
- Review complete municipal code
- Schedule consultation with Community Development Department
- Prepare detailed business plan
- Gather required documentation
- Submit permit application
Photos of Watsonville
Overview of Watsonville
Watsonville, California, is a city located in Santa Cruz County, in the heart of the state's agricultural region. With a population of approximately 54,000 residents, Watsonville is known for its rich farming history, particularly its production of strawberries, apples, and fresh produce. The city is situated about 94 miles south of San Francisco and 30 miles north of Monterey, making it relatively close to other major destinations while maintaining a quieter, more rural character.
Watsonville's appeal for short-term rentals is bolstered by several notable landmarks and attractions. Among them is the Watsonville City Plaza, a historic park in the city center that often serves as a community gathering spot. For nature enthusiasts, the Pajaro Valley, renowned for its scenic beauty and agricultural significance, offers numerous opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
One of the key attractions in Watsonville is the Farming & Harvesting in the Pajaro Valley (http://www.pajarovalleyhistory.org), where visitors can learn about the agricultural heritage of the region. Additionally, the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (http://www.elkhornslough.org), located nearby, is a haven for bird watchers and naturalists, featuring diverse habitats and wildlife viewing opportunities.
For those interested in aviation history, the Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts an annual airshow that attracts both locals and visitors. The Santa Cruz Fairgrounds (http://santacruzcountyfair.com), located just outside of Watsonville, offers a variety of events throughout the year, including the notable Santa Cruz County Fair.
Given its proximity to major cities like San Francisco and Monterey, as well as its unique local attractions and warm community atmosphere, Watsonville serves as an appealing destination for short-term rental visitors looking to explore the central California coast.