Short-term rentals (STRs), locally referred to as “short-term residential rentals,” are legal in San Francisco but come with stringent regulations enforced by the Office of Short-Term Rentals (OSTR). To operate one, hosts must have the property as their primary residence, residing there for at least 275 nights per year. Un-hosted rentals, where the host is not present, are capped at 90 nights annually. The market primarily caters to tourists, driven by the city's rich cultural attractions and events, with a growing segment of business travelers drawn to its tech-driven economy. STRs often thrive in urban settings, particularly in apartment complexes or homes located near tourist hotspots. To legally operate, hosts must obtain a Business Registration Certificate as well as a Short-Term Rental Registration Certificate from the city. More information about the regulations can be found on the official San Francisco Planning website: FAQs on Short-Term Rentals and Office of Short Term Rentals.