Airbnb & VRBO Performance in San Luis Obispo California.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in San Luis Obispo, California for 2024

Licensing and Registration

• All short-term rental operators in the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County must obtain a County Business License and a County Land Use Authorization.
• The County Business License must be renewed annually, and the license number must be included in the rental listing.

Land Use Authorization

• Before obtaining a County Business License, a Land Use Authorization must be received from the County Planning and Building Department.
• This authorization is necessary to ensure compliance with zoning regulations.

Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)

• Short-term rental operators must collect a 9% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) from their guests.
• Additional assessments may include a 1% Tourism Marketing District (TMD) assessment and, in certain areas, a 2% Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) assessment.

Permit Requirements

• Depending on the location, different permits may be required:
• Zoning Clearance for properties in the Coastal Zone or Inland Area.
• Minor Use Permit may be necessary in some cases, especially in the Coastal Zone.

Fees and Costs

• The annual County Business License fee is $49 for the initial year, with lower renewal fees in subsequent years.
• Additional fees may apply for Land Use Authorization and other permits.

Compliance and Reporting

• Operators must remit and report transient occupancy taxes to the Tax Collector. Airbnb may collect and remit these taxes on behalf of the hosts.
• Businesses operating during the license process must remain in compliance by remitting and reporting these taxes.

Specific Zone Regulations

• Coastal Zone: Specific location standards apply, and modifications may require a Minor Use Permit.
• Inland Area: Different regulations and permit requirements apply compared to the Coastal Zone.
• Williamson Act Contracted Land: Special clearance is required for vacation rentals on Williamson Act contracted land.

Additional Requirements

• Written consent from the property owner is required if the property is not owned by the rental operator.
• Compliance with other contracts or rules, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, and HOA rules, is mandatory.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in San Luis Obispo, California

1. Downtown San Luis Obispo

• Appeal: Downtown SLO is highly appealing due to its central location, allowing guests to walk to numerous restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and the famous Thursday night Farmer's Market. Properties like the "Harris House" and "Downtown Craftsman with Courtyard" are favorites among guests for their proximity to cultural hubs and historic sites such as the Historic Mission.

2. Grover Beach

• Appeal: Grover Beach is popular for its beachfront and ocean-view rentals. Guests love the "Boho Bungalow with Ocean View" and "Cute Studio near the Beach" for their direct access to the beach, scenic views, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

3. Baywood-Los Osos

• Appeal: This area attracts guests with its peaceful and serene environment. Rentals like the "Peaceful Suite by the Bay" and "It's A Shore Thing" offer tranquil settings, beautiful bay views, and easy access to outdoor activities.

4. Paso Robles

• Appeal: Known for its wine country, Paso Robles is a favorite among guests looking for a quiet getaway with access to wineries. Properties such as the "High Ridge Cottage" offer scenic views, modern amenities, and a peaceful retreat.

5. Oceano

• Appeal: Oceano is a beachfront destination with condos like "SEA ME & WAVE" and "LIFE IS SWELL Beach Front" that are highly rated for their proximity to the beach, comfortable amenities, and family-friendly activities.

6. Morro Bay

• Appeal: Morro Bay is appealing for its coastal charm and rentals like "Peace and Tranquility - Morro Bay" that offer a relaxing atmosphere, beautiful views, and easy access to local attractions.

These neighborhoods are highly sought after due to their unique blend of convenience, scenic beauty, and access to local attractions, making them ideal for a wide range of guests.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in San Luis Obispo, California

Measuring and Layout

• Measure your rooms to determine the best layout, ensuring there is plenty of space to move around and that natural light sources are not blocked.

Theme and Style

• Stick to a theme that reflects San Luis Obispo's unique style, such as coastal or Central Coast chic, using timeless and sturdy pieces.

Essential Furniture

• Beds: Choose solid beds that are easy to clean, consider storage beds for extra space, and opt for memory foam mattresses for durability.
• Sofas: Select sofas with washable covers that can stand the test of time and are easy to maintain. Consider sofa beds to increase guest capacity.
• Dining Table: Opt for a tough and resistant dining table that can be dressed up with tablecloths, runners, and decor.

Storage and Organization

• Use smart storage solutions like beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to keep the space tidy.
• Provide designated spots for guests' personal items, such as luggage racks.

Lighting and Mirrors

• Ensure good lighting throughout the space and consider using mirrors to make the area feel bigger and brighter.

Comfort and Amenities

• Provide high-quality, durable towels in neutral colors and ensure enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items.
• Equip the kitchen with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, kettle, and basic cookware. Include extras like a blender and sharp knives.
• Offer a hairdryer, basic toiletries, and a first-aid kit to enhance guest comfort.

Local Touches

• Incorporate local artwork and decor to reflect the unique character of San Luis Obispo.
• Provide amenities that enhance the local experience, such as surfboards, boogie boards, and beach carts for beach activities.

Accessibility and Safety

• Ensure the space is accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.
• Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and a first aid kit for safety.

Technology and Connectivity

• Provide high-speed internet and consider a Wi-Fi booster if the space is large. Ensure easy access to power outlets and include a desk lamp and power strip for guests who need to work.

Outdoor Spaces

• If applicable, enhance outdoor spaces with patio furniture, umbrellas, BBQs, and games to create a welcoming and functional area.

Discovering San Luis Obispo: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Downtown San Luis Obispo

Explore Higuera Street

• Shopping and Dining: Walk along Higuera Street, the main street of downtown, to discover unique shops like Len Collective, Humankind Fair Trade, and Buen Dia. Don't miss Scout Coffee for a great cup of coffee.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

• Historic Landmark: Visit the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a historic Spanish mission founded in 1772. Enjoy free tours of the mission and its gardens.

Downtown SLO Farmers' Market

• Local Produce and Gifts: Every Thursday at 6 PM, the farmers' market comes alive with over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, BBQ, crafts, baked goods, and live entertainment.

Bubblegum Alley

• Quirky Landmark: Check out the famous Bubblegum Alley, a 70-foot long gum-lined alley that is a unique and quirky spot for photos and leaving your mark.

Public Art and Murals

• Artistic Expression: Stroll through downtown to admire stunning murals, whimsical sculptures, and intricate mosaics that add to the city's vibrant art scene.

Cultural and Entertainment Venues

San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

• Contemporary Art: Visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, which features exhibits by contemporary California artists. Admission is free.

The Fremont Theater

• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live performances or movies at the historic Fremont Theater, known for its art deco charm.

The Palm Theatre

• Independent Cinema: Catch independent, foreign, arthouse, or mainstream films at the Palm Theatre, a solar-powered movie theater.

San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre

• Live Professional Theatre: Experience live professional theatre productions at this non-profit, regional theatre that has been running since 1948.

Outdoor Activities

Bob Jones Trail

• Walking and Biking: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Bob Jones Trail, a paved path that follows the San Luis Obispo Creek and ends at Avila Beach.

Sensorio

• Immersive Light Exhibit: Visit Sensorio, a 15-acre outdoor exhibit featuring fiber-optic stemmed spheres that change colors synchronized to music. Don't miss the Fireflies exhibit with over 10,000 flickering points of light.

Bishop Peak and Reservoir Canyon Trail

• Hiking and Biking: For adventure seekers, hike up Bishop Peak for breathtaking views or explore the serene Reservoir Canyon Trail.

Other Attractions

SLO Public Market

• Indoor Food and Drink Market: While not in downtown, the SLO Public Market is worth a visit for its central courtyard surrounded by local food and drink merchants.

Creamery Marketplace

• Open-Air Public Market: Explore this historic marketplace, which features murals, public art, eateries, and boutiques centered around the Central Coast’s dairy history.

History Center of San Luis Obispo

• Historical Society: Visit the History Center, housed in a Carnegie Library building, for a gallery, research room, gift shop, and tours.

Insider Tips

• Beach Trips: San Luis Obispo is just a 15-minute drive from beaches like Avila Beach and Pismo Beach. Use the regional bus service or bike for a scenic trip.

• Farm-to-Table Dining: Enjoy local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants and cafes that highlight the best of Central Coast ingredients.

• Seasonal Events: Keep an eye out for seasonal pop-ups and free summer concerts in the plaza.

• Local Breweries and Wineries: Explore the vibrant food and wine culture by visiting local breweries and wineries, perfect for wine tasting and craft beer enthusiasts.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your guests make the most of their visit to San Luis Obispo.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in San Luis Obispo, California

To ensure a smooth and successful short-term rental operation in San Luis Obispo, California, several practical tips can make a significant difference.

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about noise regulations and quiet hours to maintain a peaceful environment for both your guests and the neighbors. Include clear guidelines in your house manual and communicate them through your listing and pre-arrival messages.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include essential instructions, such as Wi-Fi passwords, appliance usage, and emergency contact information. This helps guests navigate the property easily and reduces the need for frequent inquiries.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with detailed check-in instructions, including photos of the property entrance and any specific steps they need to follow.

Parking Instructions

Include detailed parking instructions with photos to help guests find and use the designated parking areas. This can prevent confusion and potential issues with neighbors or local authorities.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, reduce potential issues, and ensure compliance with local regulations, such as those related to noise and zoning in San Luis Obispo County.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning services in San Luis Obispo, California:

House Cleaning Services

• Nancy's Cleaning Services: Offers professional house cleaning services in San Luis Obispo. Provides free estimates.
• Hernandez Cleaning Service: Provides home, office, and carpet cleaning services in San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, and Paso Robles. Known for quality cleaning, professional staff, and affordable rates.
• Leticia's First Class Cleaning: With over 25 years of experience, offers professional cleaning services throughout San Luis Obispo County. Specializes in deep cleaning and office cleaning.
• Merry Maids of San Luis Obispo: Offers expert home cleaning services with 40 years of experience. Provides thorough processes and proven techniques for exceptional results.

Additional Resources

For more options and reviews, you can also refer to the list of top-rated house cleaners in San Luis Obispo on Angi.

San Luis Obispo, California: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In San Luis Obispo, California, the fees for managing short-term rentals can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level of service provided. Full-service management companies, which handle comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, and maintenance, usually charge higher fees, often around 18% to 30% of the rental income.

On the other hand, basic services that may only include rent collection and minimal oversight can be less expensive. Additional fees may also apply for services like cleaning, repairs, and design enhancements. For instance, companies like Seven Sisters Vacation Rentals charge an 18% management fee, which includes startup facilitation, web placement, supply stocking, and handling traveler inquiries, among other services.

Understanding these fee structures is crucial for property owners to make informed decisions about how to manage their vacation rentals effectively and maximize their revenue.