Joshua Tree, CA – Rental Regulations Guide January 2025

Last updated: January 2025

7 Step Guide to Joshua Tree Rental Regulations

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2. Quick Facts

• Chalet Joshua Tree Investor Potential & Regulation Score: Friendly.
• Permit Required: Yes.
• Zoning Restrictions: Yes, STRs are allowed in residential zones and some commercial zones where residential uses are permitted.
• Maximum Occupancy: Occupancy limits are based on the number of bedrooms and square footage, with specific requirements for minimum square footage per occupant.
• Tax Requirements: Hosts must collect and remit a 7% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and a 2% Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) fee.
• Renewal Frequency: Annually
• Insurance Required? Yes, liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence is required.
• Enforcemnet Level: Strict

3. Getting Started with STRs in Joshua Tree (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Understand Zoning Laws

Vacation rentals are permitted in residential zones in Joshua Tree. However, zoning laws and regulations, including density caps or other restrictions, are specific to the local jurisdiction and may vary. Joshua Tree falls under San Bernardino County’s jurisdiction, which sets additional rules for STR operations in unincorporated areas.

For zoning information specific to Joshua Tree contact the San Bernardino County Land Use Services Department:

• Website: San Bernardino County Land Use Services
• Phone: (909) 387-8311
• Email: LUS.CustomerService@lus.sbcounty.gov
• Address: 385 N. Arrowhead Avenue, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0187

Ensure you review the San Bernardino County STR ordinance, which outlines zoning rules and density requirements for vacation rentals, or consult with the Planning Department for accurate information.

For additional resources on density caps or neighborhood restrictions in Joshua Tree, contact local zoning authorities directly.

Step 2: Organize Required Documents

Joshua Tree vacation rental operators must prepare the following documents to comply with county regulations:

• Proof of property ownership
• A valid business license.
• A Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate.
• Evidence of successful building, fire, and safety inspections.
• Liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence.

Additional Requirements: Neighbor notifications may apply, and adherence to Good Neighbor Policies is necessary to ensure compliance with local guidelines.

Step 3: Apply for an STR Permit

Applications for STR licenses in Joshua Tree must be submitted through San Bernardino County’s Land Use Services Department. Approved licenses must be displayed prominently at the property and included in all online or offline listings.

Joshua Tree STR Licensing:

• Website: https://str.sbcounty.gov/getting-started/ 
• Phone: (909) 387-8311
• Email: LUS.CustomerService@lus.sbcounty.gov
• Address: 385 N. Arrowhead Avenue, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0187

For additional forms or guidance, refer to the county’s STR licensing portal or directly on the EZ online permitting website.

Step 4: Health and Safety Compliance

Vacation rentals in Joshua Tree must adhere to strict health and safety standards, which include:

• Smoke Detectors: Installed in each bedroom, hallways near sleeping areas, and on every floor.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Mandatory for properties with gas appliances or attached garages.
• Fire Extinguishers: At least one Class 2A:10B must be mounted in an accessible and visible location.
• Emergency Exits: Bedrooms must provide operational escape routes, such as windows or doors.
• Trash Management: Trash bins must be secured, and waste disposal must follow neighborhood guidelines.

Step 5: Pay Taxes and Fees

• Application Fee: $667 for new permits.
• Renewal Fee: $600 annually.
• Ownership/Permit Changes: $275 for ownership changes or reissuance of a permit.
• Late Renewal Penalty: Permits not renewed within 45 days of expiration require a new application.
• Violation Fines: Non-compliance fines start at $1,000 per day.

For accurate updates, contact San Bernardino County Land Use Services at (909) 387-8311 or visit their website.

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4. Regulatory Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions provide detailed answers to the most common regulatory questions.

Example Questions:

• Do I need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Joshua Tree? Yes, you need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Joshua Tree. The San Bernardino County ordinance requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a Short-Term Rental (STR) Permit issued by the county
• What are the occupancy limits for STR properties in Joshua Tree? Sleeping areas must provide at least 70 square feet for one person and 50 square feet per person if occupied by more than one person.

Local Ordinance and Other Useful Links:

STR Ordinance

STR in San Bernardino County – Getting Started

Guide for STR Owners and Operators

STR Enforcement Process

Good Neighbor Brochure

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5. Key Considerations for Investors

What is the investment potential regulation score in Joshua Tree?
Joshua Tree maintains a regulated STR market with specific measures to balance tourism and residential concerns. These include zoning restrictions, density caps, and enforcement of Good Neighbor Policies. Recent updates reflect increasing oversight to enhance neighborhood harmony while sustaining investor opportunities. Regularly monitor updates from the County’s Land Use Services Department for compliance changes.

Are there any recent changes in STR regulations that could impact the market?
Last updates to Joshua Tree vacation rental regulations included stricter neighborhood density caps and enhanced enforcement measures. On May 25, 2023, San Bernardino County adopted Resolution No. 25113, which modified user fees and charges related to vacation rentals. While no additional updates have been recorded, staying informed of any changes is crucial for compliance and successful investment.

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6. Taxes and Financial Obligations

• Occupancy Tax Rate: Vacation rental operators in Joshua Tree must collect and remit a 7% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and a 2% Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) fee, for a combined total of 9%.
• Who Collects the Tax: Hosts are responsible for collecting these taxes from guests and remitting them to San Bernardino County. While some platforms like Airbnb may facilitate tax collection, it is the host’s responsibility to ensure compliance.
• Insurance Requirements: Operators must maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000 per occurrence to comply with county requirements.
• Payment Deadlines: Taxes must be filed monthly, even if no rental income is generated during that period. Operators should follow San Bernardino County’s tax remittance procedures to ensure timely and accurate filings.
• Ensure all tax filings align with the county’s procedures for compliance. For tax forms and details, visit San Bernardino County Tax Collection Guidelines.

7. How Chalet Can Help

• Local Realtor Partnerships:
  Looking to invest in short-term rental properties? Chalet’s nationwide network of specialized realtors is here to guide you. Our experts understand the nuances of vacation rentals and local markets, helping you identify high-ROI properties and navigate complex regulations with ease. Best of all, their services come at no extra cost to you. Click here to connect for free.
• Chalet’s Regulation Updates:
  Chalet email subscribers receive updates regarding regulatory changes in cities. Subscribe here!

• Connect with Local Experts:
  At Chalet, our goal is to enable everyone to create wealth with short-term rentals. We bring the experience and expertise to optimize your rental property. Connect with a STR professional in your area here.

Recommended Tools and Resources

1. Chalet STR Market Insights Tool
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2. Airbnb Income Guide
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3. Chalet Investor Guides
   These investor guides provide city-specific insights, including tax obligations, regulations, investment potential, and detailed market data. Investors can select from over 200 city guides to find data tailored to their target market. Explore Investor Guides.​
4. AI-Powered Market Comparison Dashboard
   Chalet’s market comparison dashboard offers a powerful tool for comparing different STR markets based on yield, occupancy rates, and other key performance indicators. This tool is particularly useful for investors looking to diversify across different regions. Check out the Market Dashboard​.
5. Chalet STR Calculator
   The free Chalet STR Calculator is a powerful tool designed to help short-term rental investors evaluate potential property performance with ease. It enables users to estimate revenue, analyze expenses, and project profitability for any STR market, streamlining investment decisions. Whether you’re comparing properties or exploring new opportunities, the Chalet STR Calculator simplifies the process with precision. Learn more about the Chalet STR Calculator.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in these guides is for entertainment and general informational purposes only. It may not reflect the most up-to-date regulations, and Chalet is not responsible for any inaccuracies or changes to the information on third-party sites. These guides are not legal advice. We highly recommend verifying details directly with local authorities and consulting professionals before making any investment decisions. Ultimately, it is your responsibility as an investor to ensure compliance with local laws.