Hotel & Motel Taxes
Any person renting a hotel / motel room in the City of Seaside must pay a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on the total amount paid for the room. The tax is paid directly to the hotel / motel (operator) and the operator will remit to the City.
Registration of Hotels / Motels
Within thirty (30) days after commencing business, each operator of any hotel renting occupancy to transients shall register the hotel with the City and obtain a Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate to be displayed at all times in a conspicuous place on the premises. To register, apply in person at the Finance Department counter, located at 440 Harcourt Avenue. For additional information, please call 831-899-6715.
Does the City Offer Transient Occupancy Tax Exemptions?
The following transients are exempt from paying transient occupancy tax, if at the time rent is collected the transient submits a Claim for Exemption (PDF):
- Any person as to whom, or any occupancy as to which, it is beyond the power of the City to impose the tax;
- Any federal or state of California officer or employee when on official business, and;
- Any officer or employee of a foreign government who is exempt by reason of express provision of federal law or international treaty.
In addition, occupancies of thirty-one (31) consecutive days or more do not pay transient occupancy tax.