Los Angeles Short-Term Rental Laws and Police Permits: What Homeowners Need to Know

By: Brad Greiner, CEO of Open Air Homes and OpenAiRE Brokerage

Los Angeles has introduced new short-term rental (STR) police permit regulations, raising concerns among property owners. Are these rules a necessary measure for responsible hosting, or are they driven by hotel lobby interests? In this guide, we break down what this means for STR hosts and how to stay compliant.   

Los Angeles STR Laws are constantly in flux.  At Open Air Homes, we are staying on top of the ever changing laws to protect our homeowner partners.  

Understanding Los Angeles Short-Term Rental Laws

To legally operate a short-term rental in Los Angeles, homeowners must follow city regulations, which include:

• Primary Residence Requirement – STRs must be operated from a host’s primary residence.
• 120-Night Cap – Rentals exceeding this require additional permissions.
• New Police Permit Requirement – Hosts must now obtain a police permit, adding another layer of regulation.

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Is the STR Police Permit Necessary or a Barrier to Hosts?

Many STR hosts question whether this police permit improves safety or is simply another obstacle favoring hotels. The hotel lobby has been vocal in pushing for tighter restrictions, claiming STRs take away long-term housing. However, many homeowners argue that STRs support tourism, local businesses, and the city’s economy.

 

Key Changes with the Police Permit Requirement

• Additional Fees & Applications – The permit adds costs and administrative work.
• More Oversight – STR hosts may face stricter enforcement and penalties.
• Unclear Enforcement – How the city will enforce the policy remains uncertain.

How to Apply for a Police Permit

What This Means for STR Owners in Los Angeles

For hosts managing STRs, these changes highlight the need for compliance and adaptability. Homeowners who rely on STR income must stay informed and consider legal alternatives, such as Month+ rentals, which are not subject to STR caps or new permit requirements.

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How Open Air Homes Helps Homeowners Navigate STR Regulations

At Open Air Homes, we specialize in compliant short-term and Month+ rental solutions to maximize property income while staying within legal guidelines. Our team:

• Keeps up-to-date on Los Angeles STR laws
• Helps homeowners transition to Month+ rentals if needed
• Provides full-service management, from guest screening to pricing optimization

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Our Stance: Responsible Hosting

At Open Air Homes, we remain committed to responsible hosting. We’ve always pivoted our business to comply with evolving regulations, and this scenario will be no different. We believe in creating a harmonious balance where STRs can coexist with communities and complement the local tourism and hospitality industry, without being unfairly targeted by competing interests.

Looking Ahead: Fair and Balanced Regulation

As the STR industry matures, it’s crucial that regulations are crafted in the spirit of fairness and balance, considering the interests of all stakeholders – hosts, guests, communities, and yes, even hotels. Open Air Homes will continue to advocate for responsible hosting practices while calling for transparency and equity in regulatory processes. 

Only through a collaborative approach can we ensure that the vibrant tapestry of accommodations in Los Angeles, from charming STRs to luxurious hotels, thrives in harmony, offering diverse and enriching experiences to all who visit this dynamic city.