Palm Desert STR Rules & Regulations

Palm Desert boasts around 500 permitted Short-Term Rentals (STRs) that are currently operational. If you're considering investing in an STR, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the complete STR Ordinance, STR Frequently Asked Questions, and the Good Neighbor Brochure.

• Short-Term Rental Permit Requirement: To operate an STR in Palm Desert, obtaining a Short-Term Rental Permit is mandatory.

• Purchasing an Existing Licensed STR: If you're interested in acquiring an STR, you have the option to purchase a currently licensed (turnkey) STR, provided one is available for sale.

• Non-Transferrable STR Permits: It's important to note that STR Permits in Palm Desert are not transferrable.  It's vital to recognize that the issuance of an STR permit rests solely within the jurisdiction of the city, subject to its discretion on timing and eligibility.

• HOA Approval and CC&R Compliance: All new STR permit applications necessitate a letter from the HOA Board or Management Company, confirming that the operation of the specific Vacation Rental won't violate the CC&R's or other HOA rules.

• Changes for Existing STR Permits: Existing STR permits without a written approval letter from the HOA Board or Management Company will terminate and cease operation after December 31, 2021.

• New STR Permits and HOA Approval: The city continues to issue new STR permits for recently purchased properties located within an HOA, subject to HOA approval.  Please note that this exclusion does not apply to single-family homes unless they are situated in an R-3 zone.

• Application Process and Operation of STR: All new STR owners must apply for an STR permit as new applicants.  However, the STR buyer (new owner) can continue operating the STR while awaiting the hard copy of the new STR permit.

• Property Safety Inspection: Unlike some jurisdictions, Palm Desert does not require a property safety inspection before issuing an STR permit.

• Swift STR Application Process: The STR application process typically takes approximately 7 days to complete, ensuring a streamlined experience.

• Transient Occupancy Tax and Additional Assessment: Short-Term Rental owners are responsible for paying a Transient Occupancy Tax, along with an additional assessment to the city.

• Complaint Response and Availability: To maintain a high standard of service, the Short-Term Rental owner or their designated agent must be available 24/7 to promptly address any complaints.

• Short-Term Rental Occupancy Guidelines: See the chart below for the Short-Term Rental Occupancy Guidelines. 

Oct., 2022 - BookingPal announces Partnership with Stays Group to Expand Vacation Rental Network Offering

July, 2022 - Swimply, an 'Airbnb for pools,' comes to the Coachella Valley. Here's how it works.

April, 2022 - Palm Desert council to consider strengthening timeshare zoning amendment to target Pacaso

April, 2022 - Riverside County weights new short-term rental rules, enforcement steps to address growing market

March, 2022 - Riverside County proposes slate of new short-term rental rules

Oct., 2021 - Idyllwild has nearly half of short-term rentals under county jurisdiction. Some residents are pushing back

The information published here was accurate at time of publication.  Please check the Palm Desert City website for the most current updates.           

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