Short-Term Rentals

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use my home as a short-term rental (STR)?

Any duplex or dwelling as defined in Marina City Code (17.04.260, 17.04.265, 17.04.270, 17.04.280, 17.04.290, 17.04.291) is eligible for use as a short-term rental (STR) regardless of zone. The duplex or dwelling must be a primary residence, which is defined as an owner’s permanent residence or usual place of return for housing as documented by at least two forms of identification.

Only dwelling units that are owner-occupied are available for use as short-term rentals. Long-term rental units cannot be used as STRs.


What do I need to operate an STR in Marina?

All Short Term Rentals (STRs) must operate with a valid STR Permit issued by the City of Marina Community Development Department. Filing an application for an STR Permit costs $950, and the annual renewal fee is $125. 

The first step is to apply for an STR Permit applications, which can be done using the Online Permit Portal. Select "Apply Now" under Development Projects and if you are a new user click "Register Now" to create an account. Then select "Short Term Rental Permit" from the drop down list and follow the steps including uploading proof that you live in the home as your principal residence.

All STR owners must maintain a valid business license once they receive approval from the Planning Division. Visit the business license webpage for how for a business license: https://www.cityofmarina.org/210/Business-License.

All STR owners must pay monthly the fourteen percent (14%) Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) per MMC Chapter 3.12. You can pay the monthly STR TOT online through HdL's TOT portal: https://marina.hdlgov.com/. If you need assistance or have questions, please contact HdL directly by phone: (831) 233-6558 or by email: marina@hdlgov.com. 

When does the STR ordinance go into effect?

The ordinance goes into effect on December 5, 2019, which is 30 days after the City Council’s second reading of the draft ordinance. Contact the Planning Division at 831-884-1220 for verification of adoption of the ordinance.


When will my short-term rental permit expire?

STR permits expire on June 30th of each calendar year regardless of date issued. Permits must be renewed annually in order for the property to continue operation as an STR. As noted above the renewal fee is $125.


What is transient occupancy tax?

Transient occupancy tax, or TOT, is a local tax set forth in Chapter 3.12 of the Marina Municipal Code. The tax is paid by a guest when paying for an STR. The collected TOT is then remitted to the City. In Marina the TOT rate is 14% and is due at the end of every month there is an active STR. Both STR owners and online hosting platforms bear responsibility for ensuring TOT is collected and remitted to the City. The portal to pay TOT is located here: https://marina.hdlgov.com/. If you need assistance or have questions, please contact HdL directly by phone: (831) 233-6558 or by email: marina@hdlgov.com.