Short-Term Rental Rules in Palm Springs, CA (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Palm Springs, but only as ancillary and secondary uses of residential properties [1][2][3][4]. Hosts need to obtain a Vacation Rental Registration Certificate which considers such rentals a privilege [1][2][3][4].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, a Vacation Rental Registration Certificate is required to operate a short-term rental in Palm Springs [1][4]. The certificate may be revoked or not renewed if compliance requirements are not met [1][4]. Apartments are excluded from vacation rentals, and only single-family homes are permitted [2][3].
Taxes
Hosts are required to collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) [4]. The published rules do not specify the rate or additional tax obligations; ask the city.
Limits and restrictions
Vacation rentals are limited to single-family homes and must comply with occupancy limits tied to the number of bedrooms [1][4]. No outside amplified noise is permitted, and parking is regulated based on bedroom count [4]. Vacation rental operations must not adversely affect the public health, welfare, or safety of neighborhoods [1].
Penalties
Failure to comply with regulations can lead to revocation or denial of the Vacation Rental Registration Certificate [1][3]. The published rules do not specify fines or other penalties; ask the city.
How to apply
Applications for a Vacation Rental Registration Certificate must be submitted to the city [4]. The process includes a fee of $1,046 for new or annual registration as of December 1, 2025 [4]. An Administrative Appeals Board handles appeals, and the appeal fee is $1,324 [4].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit requirement | Yes, a Vacation Rental Registration Certificate is required [1] |
| Allowed property types | Single-family homes only, not apartments [2][3] |
| Parking limits | Based on bedroom count [4] |
| Noise restrictions | No outside amplified noise [4] |
| Application fee | $1,046 as of December 1, 2025 [4] |
| Appeal process | Managed by Administrative Appeals Board; fee is $1,324 [4] |
FAQ
Where can I apply for a vacation rental permit?
Applications must be submitted to the city [4].
What taxes do vacation rental hosts in Palm Springs need to pay?
Hosts must collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) [4]. The specific rate is not stated; ask the city.
Are there any noise restrictions for vacation rentals in Palm Springs?
Yes, outside amplified noise is not allowed at any time [4].
Running a rental in Palm Springs
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Chapter 5.25: VACATION RENTALS - City of Palm Springs, CA (official)
- Chapter 5.25: VACATION RENTALS - City of Palm Springs, CA (official)
- Chapter 5.25: VACATION RENTALS - City of Palm Springs, CA (official)
- Vacation Rentals | City of Palm Springs (official)
Last checked: October 7, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.