Short-term rentals (STRs) in Mountain View, California, are legal and regulated under the city's Short Term Rental Ordinance established in December 2018. Known locally as "short-term rentals," these properties include apartments and houses primarily in urban settings, catering mostly to business travelers given Mountain View's proximity to Silicon Valley tech companies. The market is influenced by a combination of local business activity and occasional tourist visitors, especially for events at nearby tech hubs or landmarks. STR operators must adhere to specific regulations, such as a maximum occupancy limit of ten guests and restrictions on unhosted rentals, which can only be rented for a maximum of 60 days per year. Additionally, STR operators must register their properties with the city, pay a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT), and comply with ongoing reporting requirements. The City of Mountain View's Finance Department oversees these regulations, aiming to preserve residential character and ensure accountability for the impacts of STRs. For more information, visit the official city website: https://www.mountainview.gov/our-city/departments/finance-and-administrative-services/billing/short-term-rentals.