The City of Anaheim has developed a unique approach to short-term rental (STR) activity, striking a balance between property owner rights and neighborhood peace. After initially phasing out STRs in 2016, the City reversed its position in June 2019, allowing limited STRs under a strict regulatory framework.
This 2025 guide explains exactly what you need to know about Anaheim’s short-term rental regulations, including how to stay compliant while hosting legally through platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or others.
Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Anaheim?
Yes, but only under specific conditions:
- New short-term rentals are prohibited.
- Only 277 existing STRs (approved before 2016) are currently allowed to operate.
- These STRs must comply with updated rules, including minimum stay requirements, good neighbor policies, and permit renewals.
In Anaheim, a short-term rental is defined as renting a residential unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days.
How to Legally Operate an STR in Anaheim
To be fully compliant, hosts must:
- Apply for a Short-Term Rental Permit
- Obtain a Business License
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STR Permit Application
To continue operating an approved STR in Anaheim, property owners or managers must submit a Short Term Rental Permit Application either:
- In-person at Anaheim City Hall (Planning Department)
- By mail to the address listed on the application form
Permit Validity:
Each permit is valid for 1 year from the issue date and must be renewed annually.
The property owner is solely responsible for ensuring proper registration and timely renewal of the property.
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Business License Requirement
Once the STR permit is granted, owners must apply for a City of Anaheim Business Tax Certificate, commonly referred to as a Business License.
This certificate confirms the host is operating legally and includes a regulatory permit number (REG#), which:
- Must be included in all Airbnb or STR listings
- Helps Code Enforcement track and verify compliance
Minimum Stay Requirement
To minimize community disruption, Anaheim mandates:
- A minimum stay of three nights per guest booking.
This prevents excessive turnover, late-night disturbances, and parking issues in residential zones.
Hosting Best Practices and Other Rules
In addition to official city laws, STR hosts in Anaheim are expected to follow:
- HOA rules, lease agreements, and neighborhood guidelines
- Quiet hours and guest behavior standards
- Parking, trash disposal, and occupancy limits are outlined in their permit terms
If you live in a multi-unit building, always check with your landlord or housing authority before hosting.
Important Compliance Notes for 2025
- No new STR permits are being issued. Only hosts with pre-approved short-term rentals (STRs) are eligible for renewals.
- All STR listings must display the valid regulatory permit number.
- Violations of permit conditions may lead to fines, suspension, or revocation of your STR license.
For the latest application forms, compliance updates, or renewal procedures, visit the official City of Anaheim website. If you’d like help managing your listing while ensuring full compliance, our team can provide expert Airbnb Management support in Anaheim.