Permit Requirements
To legally operate a short-term rental in Malibu, property owners must obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit. Operating or advertising a rental without a valid permit is a violation of city ordinances and may result in fines of $1,000 per day or twice the advertised daily rental rate, whichever is higher.
Application Process
Online Application:
- Complete the online application form provided by the City of Malibu.
- Upload proof of ownership, such as a Grant Deed and, if applicable, an operating agreement.
- Print, sign, and initial the attestation page, then upload it to the online form.
- Pay the application fee of $495 by credit card.
- Mail the original signed and initialed attestation page to the City of Malibu Short-Term Rental Permit Program.
Mail-In Application:
- Fill out the Mail-In Application Form available on the city’s website.
- Include proof of ownership documents.
- Include a check for the $495 application fee payable to the City of Malibu.
- Mail the completed application package to the City of Malibu Short-Term Rental Permit Program.
For detailed instructions and access to application forms, visit the City of Malibu’s Short-Term Rental Program page.
Hosted Short-Term Rental Ordinance
Malibu’s Hosted Short-Term Rental Ordinance, adopted in November 2020, introduces additional requirements:
- Hosted Rentals: The host must reside on-site during the rental period, specifically between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
- Primary Residence: Only primary residences are eligible for hosted short-term rentals.
- Multifamily Properties: Owners may rent up to 40% of units, not exceeding two units per parcel, provided the remaining units are rented long-term.
Note: The Hosted Short-Term Rental Ordinance will take effect once certified by the California Coastal Commission.
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
Hosts are required to collect a 15% Transient Occupancy Tax from guests and remit it to the City of Malibu. Platforms like Airbnb automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts, while others, such as Vrbo, may not.
Additional Regulations
- Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS): As of January 1, 2023, properties must have a valid OWTS operating permit or a compliance agreement with the city to obtain or renew a short-term rental permit.
- Safety Measures: Properties must be equipped with smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
- Occupancy Limits: Occupancy is limited to the number specified on the permit, not exceeding 14 individuals, unless a special event permit is obtained.
- Local Contact: A local contact person must be available 24/7 to address any issues that may arise during the rental period.
- Code of Conduct: Hosts must provide guests with the City’s Short-Term Rental Code of Conduct and post it inside the main entrance of the rental property.
Compliance and Enforcement
Non-compliance with Malibu’s short-term rental regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines and revocation of permits. Hosts need to stay informed about current laws and ensure full compliance to operate legally.
For professional assistance in managing your Airbnb property in Malibu, including compliance with local regulations, consider exploring Airbnb Management Services in Malibu. To get more information about other regulations, you can also visit Malibu’s official website or contact us.