Burbank Permit Requirements Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Burbank has taken a firm stance against short-term rentals in residential areas. The city's zoning code does not include short-term rental use as a permitted or conditionally permitted use in any residential zone classification (R-1 through R-4). This means that renting a residential property, room, or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for fewer than 30 consecutive days is a zoning violation, regardless of whether the owner is present during the stay.

Unlike many neighboring cities in Los Angeles County that have created licensing and permitting frameworks for platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, Burbank has not established any such program. The only lawful short-term lodging in Burbank is provided by licensed hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfast establishments operating in appropriately zoned commercial areas. These establishments are subject to the city's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 12%. The Community Development Department actively monitors short-term rental platforms for Burbank listings and pursues code enforcement actions against property owners operating in violation. Property owners who receive a notice of violation are given a compliance period to remove listings and cease rental activity before fines are assessed.