STR Community Guide

Welcome Neighbors!

We value your peace and safety, and we're committed to making sure all short-term rentals operate in a respectful and responsible way. A short-term rental (STR) is a property rented out for a brief period, typically less than 30 days, often for vacation or temporary stays. STRs are solely for overnight lodging purposes, not large gatherings or events.

Short Term Rental Basics

  • Guest Limit:  Each rental is allowed a maximum of two guests per bedroom, plus two additional guests. For example, a permitted rental with three bedrooms would have a maximum occupancy of eight guests. 
  • Noise Policy: Quiet hours are between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM. (EMC 17-229)
  • Parking: Guests must use only the on-site parking spaces associated with the approved short-term rental unit. Street parking is not permitted.
  • Requirements:  All short-term rentals located in the City of Escondido must have an approved Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) registration permit, STR Permit, and City Business License. STRs located in the unincorporated areas of Escondido are subject to San Diego County regulations. When a permit is approved, the rental address, responsible contact information, and permit number will be visible on the City website https://escondido.hdlgov.com/Search/Index/STRPermit. 
  • Compliance: The ordinance went into effect on July 1, 2025. The permit portal went live on July 7, 2025. To give neighbors time to apply, Code Compliance will begin investigating any unpermitted rentals in September 2025. 

You can find all the details on short-term rentals in City Ordinance (EMC 16-8).

Responsible Contact

To ensure a peaceful neighborhood, each permitted STR is required to provide a responsible contact for neighbors to communicate any issues that arise at the property or from STR guests. They will be available 24/7 while guests are present and can be on site within the hour, if needed. 

To report any unresolved issues, please use the following resources: 

  • 24/7 STR reporting hotline 760-291-8173
  • “Report It” Mobile App: Available in the Apple App Store and Google Play
  • City Code Compliance Division: 760-839-4650
  • Local Police Department (Non-Emergency): 760-839-4722
  • Emergencies (Fire/Police/Medical): Dial 911