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

San Leandro's Short-Term Rental ordinance, codified in Municipal Code Chapter 4-28, was adopted to provide a regulatory framework for platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and other vacation rental services operating within the city. The ordinance reflects San Leandro's approach of allowing short-term rentals while imposing operational standards to protect residential neighborhoods and ensure guest safety.

The permit application process requires the following: a completed STR Permit application submitted to the Community Development Department; proof that the applicant is the property owner or, if a tenant, written consent from the property owner authorizing STR use; a valid San Leandro Business License; registration with the City Finance Department for Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remittance; proof of commercial general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence naming the City of San Leandro as an additional insured; designation of a local contact person who resides within 30 miles of the property, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can respond to the property within 60 minutes of notification of a complaint or emergency; and a floor plan of the rental unit identifying bedrooms, exits, and the location of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

The City distinguishes between two types of STR operations. Hosted rentals are those in which the property owner or permanent resident remains on the premises during the guest stay — typically a spare bedroom or accessory dwelling unit rented while the host is home. Un-hosted rentals involve the rental of the entire property or unit while the owner or permanent resident is away. Un-hosted whole-home rentals are subject to additional restrictions, including annual night caps and heightened scrutiny during the permit review process.

Before a permit is issued, the property must pass a fire and life safety inspection conducted by the San Leandro Fire Department or its designee. The inspection verifies working smoke detectors in each bedroom and hallway, carbon monoxide detectors on each floor, at least one fire extinguisher accessible to guests, clear and unobstructed egress paths from all sleeping areas, and compliance with maximum occupancy standards. Properties in multi-family buildings must also demonstrate that STR use is not prohibited by the building's CC&Rs or HOA rules.

STR permits are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Renewal requires confirmation that insurance remains active, the local contact person is current, and the property continues to meet safety standards. Permits are non-transferable — if the property is sold, the new owner must apply for a new permit. The STR permit number must be displayed in all online listings and advertisements.

The City actively monitors major booking platforms for unpermitted listings and investigates complaints from neighbors. The Community Development Department maintains a public registry of permitted STR properties.