Airbnb in Marina del Rey, Venice, and Santa Monica: What You Need to Know Before Listing Your Property

Airbnb in Marina del Rey, Venice, and Santa Monica: What You Need to Know Before Listing Your Property

Are you dreaming of turning your coastal home into an income-generating Airbnb hotspot? If you're in Marina del Rey, Venice, or Santa Monica, here's everything you need to know about short-term rentals, including whether it's allowed, how to get a permit, and some crucial statistics.

Is Airbnb Allowed? Each of these stunning areas has its own rules when it comes to Airbnb, so it's essential to know what you're getting into before listing your property.

Marina del Rey: In Marina del Rey, short-term rentals are generally allowed. However, be aware that most of the area is under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County, which has specific rules. The county requires hosts to register their property and obtain a permit if they plan to rent it out for less than 30 days. The county also limits the number of days a property can be rented out to 120 days per year unless you apply for an extended home-sharing permit.

Venice: Venice, part of Los Angeles, allows Airbnb rentals, but with some restrictions. You'll need to register with the city and pay transient occupancy taxes. The city has also placed a cap of 120 rental nights per year unless the host lives on the property during the stay. Additionally, Venice has its own Specific Plan, which could impact your ability to rent out your property, so checking local guidelines is crucial.

Santa Monica: Santa Monica has some of the strictest regulations. To operate an Airbnb here, you must live on-site throughout the rental period and register for a business license. Santa Monica enforces its rules rigorously, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines. This means that whole-home rentals for less than 30 days are essentially banned unless you’re sharing your home.

Should You Get a Permit? Absolutely! Failing to get the necessary permits can lead to significant fines and the risk of being banned from hosting. Besides, having a permit gives you peace of mind knowing you’re on the right side of the law.

How to Get a Permit

Getting a permit is generally a straightforward process, but it varies slightly by location:

1. Marina del Rey: Apply through the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning. You’ll need to provide details about your property and pay the required fees.

2. Venice: Registration is done through the City of Los Angeles. The process includes submitting your ID, proof of residence, and other relevant documents online.

3. Santa Monica: You’ll need to apply for a business license through the city’s Planning & Community Development Department. Be prepared to prove that you live on the property.

Airbnb Statistics & Restrictions

Airbnb has exploded in popularity, especially in tourist-friendly areas like Marina del Rey, Venice, and Santa Monica. Here’s a snapshot of the current landscape:

California is Airbnb’s largest market, with over 80,000 active listings.

Santa Monica has seen a 5% drop in Airbnb listings due to its strict regulations, while Venice continues to thrive with a 10% annual increase in new hosts.

On average, Marina del Rey hosts earn around $150 per night, while in Venice and Santa Monica, rates can soar to $250 or more during peak season.

Despite the financial potential, it’s crucial to be aware of local restrictions. For instance, all three areas enforce quiet hours and guest limits, which can impact the guest experience and your reviews.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re in Marina del Rey, Venice, or Santa Monica, navigating Airbnb regulations can be tricky but worth it. By getting the right permits and understanding local laws, you can ensure a smooth and profitable hosting experience.