On Feb. 26, the Grover Beach City Council unanimously adopted amendments to the City’s Short-Term Rental (STR) ordinance. These revisions aim to improve program efficiency and clarity, reflecting the City’s commitment to refining the STR program in response to evolving community needs and circumstances.
“Continually assessing our Short-Term Rental program is critical to ensure we are meeting the needs of Grover Beach residents,” said Grover Beach Mayor Karen Bright. “These minor ordinance changes will enhance our local program as we continue to balance fostering a thriving tourism industry with preserving neighborhood wellness and character.”
Originally enacted in June 2019, the STR ordinance was a decision by the City Council to permit STRs — or properties rented for fewer than 30 days at a time — within Grover Beach. To ensure clarity and compliance, the City developed Administrative Rules outlining the requisite guidelines and procedures for STR applicants. Furthermore, the City took proactive measures by crafting A Good Neighbor Brochure to educate visitors on fostering harmonious relations with residents.
After receiving a STR program update in August 2023, the Grover Beach City Council directed staff to make adjustments to the ordinance, which was last amended in 2021. On Feb. 26, the City Council approved the following changes to the ordinance on a second reading, with the revisions next going to the California Coastal Commission for approval:
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Limits STR waitlist properties to one “pass” when a permit becomes available, effectively streamlining the waitlist process and establishing a more efficient methodology.
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Prohibits the use of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) as a STR in compliance with new state laws.
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Extends the time required for a responsible party to be on-site following a complaint from 30 to 45 minutes. A local contact must still respond to a complaint within 30 minutes of receipt.
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Adds new language mandating all current STRs to comply with any new requirements upon permit renewal.
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Makes additional minor changes and ordinance clean-ups.
To seek community feedback before the ordinance changes, the City distributed an online survey to residents and current STR permit holders, receiving 121 responses. Among the survey findings, 75% of respondents said they were satisfied with the City’s STR Program and 86% found STRs to positively impact neighborhoods.
Since the adoption of the STR ordinance, the City has granted 113 STR permits and collected approximately $1.77 million in Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT), accounting for 50% of the total TOT revenue generated for the City.
“The success of the City’s Short-Term Rental program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our Council, City staff and community,” said Grover Beach City Manager Matt Bronson. “It is our priority at the City to ensure that this ordinance continues to reflect the needs and concerns of all stakeholders and our community.”
Stay updated on future STR ordinance developments through the City’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Nextdoor.