In Pasadena, California, short-term rentals—defined as stays of 30 days or less—are legal but closely regulated. Whether you’re listing your home on Airbnb or another platform, it’s essential to follow the city’s latest 2025 guidelines. These rules ensure hosts remain compliant and neighborhoods maintain their residential character.
Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Pasadena?
Yes, short-term rentals are permitted in Pasadena under Ordinance No. 7317, provided specific conditions are met. Both hosted and un-hosted rentals are allowed in various property types, including single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, townhouses, and certain multi-family rental units.
However, only properties that qualify as a host’s primary residence are eligible. Vacation homes or properties not occupied by the owner for at least nine months of the year are not allowed to operate as STRs.
Permit Types and Registration
Pasadena requires all short-term rental hosts to apply for a permit. The application can be completed online and costs $100 plus processing fees. Two types of permits are available:
Type 1 is for hosted short-term rentals. The host lives on the property and is present throughout the guest’s stay. This includes renting out a spare room or portion of the home.
Type 2 is for un-hosted short-term rentals. The host is not present during the guest’s stay, such as when renting out an entire home while away. These rentals are capped at 90 nights per calendar year.
Eligibility and Compliance Requirements
To qualify for a permit, the rental must be your primary residence. The unit must meet fire safety standards, including the presence of functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as safe emergency exits. Hosts must also provide a 24/7 local contact or property management contact to respond promptly to any issues.
Tenants who intend to sublet a unit must notify their landlords and provide written documentation to the city. Additionally, every STR operator must obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate from Pasadena’s Finance Department before legally operating.
Permit Validity and Renewal
STR permits in Pasadena are valid for one year from the date of issue. They are non-transferable and apply only to the originally listed property. If you don’t renew within the one-year timeframe, the permit becomes void, and you must reapply from scratch.
Key Short-Term Rental Rules in Pasadena
All STR listings must clearly display their city-issued permit number on every platform and advertisement. Un-hosted rentals cannot exceed 90 days annually, while hosted rentals have no such limit.
The maximum occupancy is set at two guests per bedroom plus two additional people. Large gatherings or commercial events, such as weddings, fundraisers, or corporate meetings, are not permitted at STR properties.
The rental space must offer on-site parking and must not include areas not approved for residential use. Garages, parked vehicles, storage sheds, tents, or other temporary structures are strictly prohibited as guest accommodations.
Hosts cannot post exterior signs or banners advertising the rental. Additionally, listings must comply with Pasadena’s noise, trash, and residential disturbance regulations.
Safety Inspection Requirements
Before receiving a permit, your property must undergo a safety check. The City of Pasadena may allow self-certification or third-party inspections as part of this process, depending on the structure’s history of compliance.
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
Short-term rentals in Pasadena are subject to a 12.11% Transient Occupancy Tax. Airbnb collects and remits this tax on behalf of its hosts. However, for other platforms or direct bookings, hosts are responsible for calculating and submitting their own quarterly tax returns.
All returns must be submitted through the city’s official website. Failure to file or remit accurate taxes can result in financial penalties and potential revocation of the rental permit.
Violations and Penalties
Violating Pasadena’s STR ordinance may lead to daily fines. If a property receives three documented violations within a year, the host’s permit may be permanently revoked. These violations include failure to display permit numbers, operating beyond the allowable nights, nuisance complaints, or failure to meet safety requirements.
Other Rules to Consider
In addition to city regulations, hosts must adhere to any applicable lease agreements, HOA rules, or tenant association guidelines. It’s a good practice to check with your landlord or property manager before operating an STR, especially if you are a renter.
To stay updated or apply for a permit, visit Pasadena’s official city website. For support navigating the rules or managing your listing, explore our services for Airbnb Management Pasadena.
Let’s ensure your hosting experience is smooth, compliant, and rewarding.