Short-term rentals (STRs) in Santa Cruz County, California, often referred to locally as "vacation rentals," are legal but subject to restrictive regulations aimed at balancing tourism with community needs. The Santa Cruz County code mandates that property owners obtain a Vacation Rental Permit and a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate to operate short-term rentals legally. STRs predominantly appeal to tourists seeking a variety of accommodation experiences, thriving in neighborhoods featuring beach homes, cabins in rural settings, and urban apartments, particularly near attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The business landscape here is robust, being largely driven by seasonal tourism, especially in warmer months, although some rentals also cater to business travelers year-round. Regulations are enforced by the Santa Cruz County Planning Department, which oversees permit issuance and adherence to local laws. For more information on regulations and permits, visit the official government websites: City of Santa Cruz Short-Term Rentals and Santa Cruz County Hosted Rentals Permits.