Are you considering starting a short-term rental business in Roseville, California? Whether you’re planning to list your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms, it’s crucial to understand the local regulations and requirements. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a Roseville short term rentals business license and provide valuable insights into operating your rental legally and successfully.
Understanding Short-Term Rentals in Roseville
Roseville, California, has specific regulations governing short-term rentals (STRs) within single-family homes. The city allows property owners to rent their primary residences on a short-term basis, typically for 30 days or less to the same person.
Key Points About Roseville STRs
- Short-term rentals are allowed only in single-family dwellings that are the primary residence of the owner.
- Rentals can be for the entire home or part of it, with a maximum occupancy of six people.
- The city requires both a short-term rental permit and a business license to operate legally.
- Short-term rentals must pay a 3% lodging tax, previously only required of hotels in Roseville.
Obtaining a Roseville Short-Term Rental Business License
To start your short-term rental business in Roseville, you’ll need to follow these steps:
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Apply for a Short-Term Rental Permit
The first step is to obtain a short-term rental permit from the City of Roseville. This permit allows you to rent your property on a short-term basis.
Required Documents for Permit Application
- Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate
- Proof of Liability Insurance
- Defensible Space Inspection Certificate
- Proof of Primary Homeowner Exemption
- Payment Fee (Initial permit cost: $185, Annual renewal: $857)
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Obtain a Business License
In addition to the short-term rental permit, you must also acquire a business license. This license needs to be renewed annually by January 31st.
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Register for Transient Occupancy Tax
You’ll need to register with the state to collect and remit the required 3% lodging tax (Transient Occupancy Tax) for your short-term rental.
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Comply with Local Regulations
Ensure your property meets all local zoning requirements and adheres to the city’s short-term rental ordinance.
Operating Your Short-Term Rental in Roseville
Once you’ve obtained your business license and permit, there are several ongoing requirements and best practices to follow:
Maintaining Compliance
- Renew your short-term rental permit annually based on the issue date.
- Renew your business license each year by January 31st.
- Collect and remit the 3% lodging tax to the city.
- Adhere to occupancy limits (maximum of six people).
Record Keeping
Roseville requires short-term rental operators to maintain a guest register for 18 months, including the following information:
- Guest names and addresses
- Vehicle details (year, make, model, color, license plate, state of registration)
- Arrival and departure dates
- Number of guests
- Amount of rent paid per night
Performance Standards
To maintain your license and ensure a positive impact on the community, follow these guidelines:
- Do not rent to more than six people at any time.
- Do not rent accessory dwelling units or junior accessory dwelling units on a short-term basis.
- Limit short-term rentals to no more than 182 days per year.
Current Challenges and Considerations for Roseville Short Term Rentals Business License
As of February 2025, there are some important factors to consider:
- The City of Roseville has paused issuing new short-term rental licenses while re-evaluating the licensing process.
- This pause was initiated in response to residents’ concerns about disruptive activities in their neighborhoods.
- If you already have a valid short-term rental permit, you should be able to continue operating your business.
Benefits and Challenges of Short-Term Rentals in Roseville
Benefits
- Additional income for property owners
- Increased tourism and economic activity in the city
- Flexible use of personal property
Challenges
- Stringent regulations and licensing requirements
- Potential neighborhood disruptions
- Ongoing compliance and record-keeping responsibilities
Conclusion
Starting and operating a Roseville short term rentals business license requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. By obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, maintaining compliance with city ordinances, and following best practices, you can create a successful and legally compliant short-term rental business. Stay informed about any changes in local regulations and always prioritize being a responsible host to ensure the long-term success of your venture.
FAQs
Can I rent out my entire home as a short-term rental in Roseville?
Yes, you can rent out your entire home or part of it, but it must be your primary residence.
How much does a short-term rental permit cost in Roseville?
The initial permit costs $185, with an annual renewal fee of $857.
Is there a limit on how many days I can rent my property as a short-term rental?
Yes, short-term rentals are limited to 182 days per year in Roseville.
Do I need both a short-term rental permit and a business license?
Yes, you need both a short-term rental permit and a business license to operate legally in Roseville.
What is the maximum occupancy allowed for a short-term rental in Roseville?
The maximum occupancy is six people at any time.
How often do I need to renew my short-term rental permit and business license?
The short-term rental permit must be renewed annually based on the issue date, while the business license needs to be renewed each year by January 31st.
