Key Elements of the Ordinance:

Purpose and Scope:

The ordinance is designed to safeguard public health and safety and protect neighborhood character.

The ordinance requires property owners to obtain a non-transferable short-term vacation rental (STVR) permit, in addition to a business license and transient occupancy tax certificate, to legally operate STVRs in Madera County. It sets clear operational standards, including, but not limited to, occupancy limits, on-site parking, noise restrictions, trash management, and fire safety compliance. In addition, it outlines the permitting process and administrative enforcement measures to bring STVRs into compliance.

Why the Ordinance Is Needed

Madera County currently has minimal regulations governing STVRs. Without standards in place, issues such as excessive noise, parking congestion, and trash accumulation. This ordinance is essential to ensure public safety, protect the quality of life for permanent residents, and preserve the character of communities. It also creates standards by holding STVR operators accountable through permit requirements, tax compliance, and enforceable operational rules. By implementing a clear regulatory framework, the County can better manage growth in the vacation rental market while balancing the needs of both visitors and local residents.

This ordinance seeks to balance the economic benefits of short-term rentals with the rights and well-being of permanent residents and the environment.

Draft Short-Term Vacation Rental Ordinance

Revised Draft Short-Term Rental Ordinance 5/7/2025

Revised Draft Short-Term Rental Ordinance 7/23/2025

Revised Draft Short-Term Rental Ordinance 1/30/2026

Upcoming Workshops

• To be determined

 Previous Workshops

•  Oakhurst Workshop – This workshop will be held at the Oakhurst Elementary School 49495 School Road, Oakhurst, California 93644 at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday May 28, 2025.

• Planning Commission Workshop – This workshop was held in the Board of Supervisors Chambers 1st Floor, 200 West 4th Street, Madera, California at 10:00 am Wednesday June 4, 2025.
• Planning Commission Workshop – This workshop was held in the Board of Supervisors Chambers 1st Floor, 200 West 4th Street, Madera, California at 10:00 am Wednesday August 6, 2025.