Marin Debuts Short-Term Rental License Program

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Marin County's Community Development Agency has launched a new licensing program for short-term rentals, which applies to many properties advertised on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

According to the CDA. the program was designed to address problems related to noise, trash and parking, while ensuring that water supplies, septic systems and emergency infrastructure is adequate for each property. The rules also place a cap on the total number of rentals permitted in certain coastal towns.

The Board of Supervisors updated a countywide ordinance in January, mandating an STR license for non-commercial rentals in unincorporated Marin County with typical stays of 30 days or less. With the formal launch of the program this week, the CDA has begun accepting and reviewing license applications, which can be submitted online.

"We are encouraging everyone who is running a short-term rental in unincorporated Marin to submit their application this winter," said Daisy Sanchez, the STR program coordinator. "We're here to help if people have questions."

According to the county, the majority of short-term rentals are in West Marin, and particularly in areas closest to the coast. Commercial businesses like hotels, motels, bed and breakfast inns and campgrounds do not need a license, even if they advertise on Airbnb or VRBO.

More information about short-term-rental licenses is available on the CDA's website.