The City of San Diego says its Municipal Code prohibits using an accessory dwelling unit as a short-term residential occupancy (STRO). The City identifies a narrow exception for permitted companion units that existed before the October 15, 2017 prohibition. The exception is tied to the unit’s classification and approval history; it should not be assumed from an older construction date or a property listing.
San Diego defines STRO as occupancy of a dwelling unit or part of one for less than one month. A City STRO license is required to operate an STRO, but holding or applying for a license does not make a prohibited ADU use permissible. The City page also describes separate tax, host, utilization, and enforcement requirements. Those requirements do not change the ADU prohibition.
Check the unit’s history and the City code
Confirm whether the structure is legally classified as an ADU or as a potentially excepted companion unit. Review its permit and certificate history, the current Municipal Code, and the City’s current STRO guidance with the responsible departments. Long-term rental, lawful construction, occupancy approval, tenancy rules, tax obligations, and private restrictions are separate questions.
This page describes the City of San Diego, not unincorporated San Diego County or California generally. If the property may fit the pre-2017 exception, ask the City to confirm the relevant records and conditions before using it for short stays.