SDSTRA recently collected questions from the local STR community to present to the City to get some clarity surrounding questions on the new STR application process and requirements. The collected questions are below with the City’s responses.
Enforcement Questions
Q: When will the OTAs (Airbnb/VRBO) be taking down listings without a license?
- “It varies by platform, it could be as soon as 5/1/23.“
Q: Where do we post the notice?
- “Per the STRO ordinance, signage needs to be visible from the sidewalk.“
Q: What type of signage should I have on my property?
- “STRO license holders received the required signage when they received their license, signage is also available here https://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/cityofsd_stro_host_signage_final_fillable.pdf“
Q: How do you do that in a high-rise building?
- “Per the STRO ordinance, the notice needs to be visible form the sidewalk.”
Q: Do I have to post my license even when it is not being occupied?
- “The required signage needs to be visible from the sidewalk and in good condition while the property is operated as a Short-Term Rental.”
Q: Has the city staffed for enforcement?
- “Yes”
Q: How many Enforcement Officers will we have?
- “5”
Q: Is there a number to call for enforcement and an email address for questions?
- “619-533-6489 and DSDSTROcomplaint@sandiego.gov”
Licensing Questions
Q: How do I obtain a license? https://www.sandiego.gov/treasurer/short-term-residential-occupancy. Questions contact stro@sandiego.gov
- “Yes, but the website to complete an application is https://aca-prod.accela.com/SANDIEGO/Default.aspx.“
Q: Does the new licensing requirement rid the city of out-of-town investors? That’s not applicable, there are no stipulations regarding out-of-town investors.
- “Correct.”
Q: Are there certain reasons the property can be denied? Previous complaints or violations at that address or TOT were not paid.
- “Requirements in the STRO ordinance are not followed: active Code enforcement cases where a remedy has been issued, unpaid TOT or RUBT, etc.”
Q: When is my $1000 due to the city?
- “During the application process and before a license can be issued.”
Q: We have multiple listings on Airbnb for the same property (one as a two-bedroom and one as a one), can I use the same license on two listings?
- “Yes, as long as the listings are home-share within the same dwelling unit.”
Q: How to get a clear TOT?
- “Contact the TOT Administration at (619) 615-1530 or email sdtot@sandiego.gov.”
Q: I am approved as Tier 2. I received notice from Airbnb requiring me to license two private individual sleeping options. What should I do?
- “Speak directly to Airbnb about this.”
Q: I have applied and have not heard back, what do I do?
- “Contact the STRO Administration at stro@sandiego.gov or call (619) 615-6120″
Q: I’m in Mission Beach and got 9 out of 10 and was not given a license. Is there an appeals process as I feel I should have 10 out of 10? Have I automatically been put on a waiting list and if so how do I know how far I am on the list?
- “There is no appeal process for the lottery results. The current Tier 4 waitlist is available on the STRO website. This is updated as changes occur.”