If you host a short-term rental, you must collect and pay Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). If you do not, you’ll be subject to penalties.

You are also legally required to:

• Reside on-site throughout your guests’ (lodgers') stay. (Un-hosted stays are not allowed.)
• Limit guests to a maximum of four adult guests per night
• Register as a host with the City
• Include City-issued approval number in all advertisements

Learn about your legal requirements: Ordinance No. 3192-22

Sunnyvale has a two-step approval process for becoming a short-term rental host.

Step One: Pay the Transient Occupancy Tax

The Transient Occupancy Tax, sometimes called a "hotel tax," requires that any person or business engaged in the renting of any number of rooms for lodging, dwelling, or sleeping purposes, must collect, report and pay this tax to the City on any guest rentals.

The Transient Occupancy Tax rate for the City of Sunnyvale is 12.5%.

Register for and pay monthly Transient Occupancy Tax

Notice: If you're hosting through Airbnb, the company will collect and pay TOT on your behalf. Hosts must still pay TOT for non-Airbnb bookings.

TOT Exemptions

Some guests may be exempt from paying Transient Occupancy Tax:

• Federal, California state or foreign government employees
• Guests who have stayed longer than 30 consecutive days

TOT Exemption Claim Form

Step Two: Register as a short-term rental host

1. Register above to pay TOT if hosting a non-Airbnb booking
2. Fill out the short-term rental application
3. Submit your application online or in person:

• Online: Apply and pay using our E-OneStop Online Service.
• In person: Bring your completed short-term rental application to the One-Stop Permit Center. You may pay the one-time registration fee at the same time.

Notice: If you have separate listings for three or more spaces or rooms, you must obtain a business license.

How to apply for a Business License