Short-Term Rentals
Indio Short-Term Rental Licensing Guide
3,000+
STRs in Indio
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About
Indio continues to shine as a premier short-term rental destination, driven by consistent tourism, major events, and year-round sunshine. While the city’s licensing process is detailed, it’s designed to protect both hosts and neighborhoods, ensuring a sustainable, high-quality rental ecosystem. For investors who embrace compliance and plan strategically, Indio offers exceptional earning potential and long-term stability in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
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Short-Term Rentals
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“Indio is one of those rare STR markets where compliance and opportunity go hand in hand. When you understand the city’s permitting process and plan around it, the returns can be incredible, especially during festival season.”
Kailen Wilkerson
Realtor
Indio STR Licensing Guide
Indio Short-Term Rental Licensing Guide
Indio sits in the heart of California's Coachella Valley, drawing visitors year-round for festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach, world-class golf, and near-perfect weather. For property owners and investors, this translates to strong short-term rental (STR) demand and serious income potential.
But before you list your property on Airbnb or Vrbo, you need to understand Indio's STR regulations. The city takes compliance seriously, with strict permitting requirements, annual fees, and proactive enforcement. Operating without a valid permit can result in fines, legal action, and removal from booking platforms.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Indio's short-term rental licensing process, from zoning and occupancy limits to taxes, fees, and staying compliant.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only - regulations and licensing details may change, so always verify current requirements directly with Indio before making any decisions.
Why Indio Regulates Short-Term Rentals
Indio regulates STRs under Chapter 37 of its Municipal Code to balance tourism growth with neighborhood quality of life. The regulations address noise complaints, parking issues, and overcrowding while ensuring that rental properties meet safety standards.
All short-term rentals require a valid permit before you can advertise or accept bookings. This applies whether you're listing on Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, or renting directly to guests.
STR Permit
How to Get a Short-Term Rental Permit in Indio
Obtaining an STR permit in Indio involves several steps. Here's what you need to do:
Step 1: Confirm Your Property Is Eligible
Not every property qualifies for an STR permit. Before applying, verify the following:
Zoning: STRs are only allowed in residential zones, including single-family and multi-family properties. Commercial properties are not eligible.
HOA and CC&R Compliance: If your property is governed by a homeowners association (HOA) or covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs), you must confirm that short-term rentals are permitted. Many HOAs prohibit or restrict STR activity, so check your governing documents carefully.
Ownership: Only the legal owner of the property can apply for a permit. If you're purchasing a property with the intent to operate an STR, ensure the permit process is part of your due diligence.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
You'll need to provide several documents and details as part of your application:
Proof of ownership (e.g., recorded grant deed or county assessor records)
Government-issued photo ID
Contact information for a local contact person
Listing URLs for any platforms where the property will be advertised
Parking plan showing available spaces for guests
Proof of liability insurance (minimum coverage varies)
Property address and assessor's parcel number (APN)
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online
The City of Indio uses an online portal for all STR permit applications, renewals, and edits. You can access the portal at indio-ca-str.deckard.com.
Applications must be complete and accurate. Incomplete submissions will delay processing. Once submitted, the city will review your application and may request additional information or clarification.
Step 4: Pay Permit and Business License Fees
As of February 2022, the combined annual cost for an STR permit and business license is approximately $1,633. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application.
Additional costs include liability insurance and any expenses related to compliance (e.g., signage, guest management systems).
Step 5: Register for TOT and TBID
Once your permit is approved, you must register with the City of Indio Finance Department to collect and remit:
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): 13% of gross rental revenue
Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) Assessment: 1% of gross rental revenue
Both must be reported and paid monthly, even if you had no bookings. Failure to report on time results in penalties and potential permit revocation.
Step 6: Display Your Permit Number
After approval, you'll receive a permit number that must be displayed on all online listings, marketing materials, and rental agreements. This helps the city track active STRs and enforce compliance.
Step 7: Renew Annually
STR permits must be renewed every year. Renewal applications are processed through the same online portal, and fees are due before your permit expires. If your permit lapses, you'll need to reapply as if it were a new STR, which can delay your ability to accept bookings.
“Between Coachella, Stagecoach, and year-round sunshine, Indio’s demand curve barely dips. The key to long-term success here is treating your rental like a business; track your taxes, stay compliant, and you’ll outperform the casual operators every time.”
Joshua Guerra
Realtor
Key Rules and Restrictions
Key Rules and Restrictions for Indio STRs
Indio's regulations include several operational requirements designed to minimize impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. Violating these rules can result in fines, permit suspension, or revocation.
Occupancy Limits
Maximum occupancy is determined by the number of bedrooms in your property:
Studio: 4 guests
1 bedroom: 6 guests
2 bedrooms: 8 guests
3 bedrooms: 10 guests
4+ bedrooms: 12 guests
These limits apply at all times and cannot be exceeded, even temporarily.
Minimum Renter Age
All guests renting an STR in Indio must be at least 21 years old. This rule helps reduce the risk of disruptive behavior, particularly during high-demand festival weekends.
Local Contact Requirements
Every STR must have a designated local contact who can respond to issues within:
15 minutes by phone or text
45 minutes in person
The local contact is responsible for addressing noise complaints, parking problems, and other issues that arise during a guest's stay. This person must be available 24/7 and cannot be the same as the guest.
Parking
You must provide adequate parking for guests based on the size of your property. The city may require a parking plan as part of your application to ensure compliance.
Records Retention
STR operators must keep detailed records for at least three years, including:
Rental contracts and agreements
Guest names and contact information
Booking dates and rental amounts
TOT and TBID payment records
The city has the right to inspect these records at any time to verify compliance.
Understanding Indio's TOT and TBID Taxes
Taxation is a critical part of operating an STR in Indio. Here's what you need to know:
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
The TOT is a 13% tax on gross rental revenue. Gross revenue includes not just the nightly rate, but also:
Cleaning fees
Pet fees
Pool heating fees
Cancellation fees
Late or early check-out fees
If you use a booking platform like Airbnb or Vrbo, the platform may collect and remit TOT on your behalf. However, you are still responsible for reporting all gross rents and remitting TBID separately.
Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) Assessment
The TBID is an additional 1% assessment on gross rental revenue for rentals of 27 days or less. This fee funds regional tourism marketing efforts through Visit Greater Palm Springs.
Unlike TOT, booking platforms do not collect or remit TBID. You must report and pay this directly to the city every month.
Monthly Reporting Requirements
Both TOT and TBID must be reported monthly, regardless of whether you had any bookings. Reports are due by the last day of the following month. For example, January's report is due by February 28.
Late payments are considered delinquent and may result in penalties, interest charges, and potential permit suspension.
You can submit reports and payments through the online portal at indio-ca-str.deckard.com. The city does not accept in-person payments or checks for TOT/TBID.
Staying Compliant with Indio's STR Regulations
Compliance isn't just about getting your permit. You need to maintain it by following all rules, reporting on time, and addressing complaints promptly.
Proactive Compliance Steps
Here are some best practices to stay on the right side of Indio's regulations:
Set calendar reminders for monthly TOT/TBID reporting deadlines and annual permit renewals.
Use property management software to track bookings, payments, and guest information.
Screen guests carefully to ensure they meet the minimum age requirement and understand house rules.
Communicate house rules clearly in your listing, welcome materials, and rental agreement.
Monitor your local contact to ensure they're responsive and available 24/7.
Maintain your property to avoid safety or code violations that could trigger complaints.
Filing Complaints
If you experience issues with a neighboring STR, you can file a complaint through the city's online portal or call the STR Complaint Hotline at 760-541-4222.
The city investigates complaints and may issue warnings, fines, or revoke permits for serious or repeated violations.
Resources and Contact Information
The City of Indio provides several resources to help STR operators navigate the permitting and compliance process:
STR Permit Portal:indio-ca-str.deckard.com
STR FAQ Page:www.indio.org/departments/finance/licenses-permits/short-term-rental-faq-s
Municipal Code Chapter 37:codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/indio/latest/indio_ca/0-0-0-53060
STR Complaint Hotline: 760-541-4222
Email:STRpermit@indio.org or TOTreporting@indio.org
The Finance Department is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, at 100 Civic Center Mall, Indio, CA 92201.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't have a valid permit?
Operating an STR without a valid permit is illegal and can result in fines, citation fees, and removal from booking platforms. Code enforcement actively monitors listings and issues citations for unpermitted rentals.
Can I transfer my permit if I sell the property?
No. STR permits are non-transferable. If you sell your property, the new owner must apply for a new permit, even if the previous permit was active.
What if my HOA prohibits short-term rentals?
If your HOA or CC&Rs prohibit STRs, the city will not issue a permit. Always verify that STRs are allowed before purchasing a property for investment purposes.
Do I need to report TOT if Airbnb collects it?
Yes. Even if Airbnb or Vrbo collects and remits TOT on your behalf, you must still report all gross rents and remit TBID separately. The city requires monthly reporting regardless of booking activity.
What if I miss my permit renewal deadline?
If your permit expires, you cannot legally operate your STR until you reapply and receive a new permit. The city treats expired permits the same as new applications, which can delay your ability to accept bookings.
Why Working with a Specialized STR Agent Matters
Navigating Indio's STR regulations can be complex, especially if you're new to real estate investing or vacation rental management. Zoning restrictions, HOA rules, and compliance requirements vary by property, and mistakes can be costly.
That's where specialized short-term rental real estate agents come in. Agents like Kailen and Josh understand the local STR market inside and out. They can help you:
Identify properties with good potential
Navigate zoning and HOA restrictions before you make an offer
Connect you with property managers, tax professionals, and compliance experts
Whether you're buying your first STR property or expanding your portfolio, working with agents who specialize in short-term rentals gives you a significant advantage.
Ready to explore Indio's STR market? Connect with Kailen and Josh to find the perfect investment property and get expert guidance every step of the way.
“Smart investors don’t see Indio’s regulations as red tape, they see them as a moat. The operators who do it right create lasting income streams in one of California’s most resilient vacation markets.”
Joshua Guerra
Realtor
