The Ultimate Guide to Investing in Real Estate in SLO County

by Janelle Eagle

The Ultimate Guide to Investing in Real Estate in SLO County

We are glad you found us! At She Helps Homeowners, we are the experts on investing in California’s brilliant Central Coast real estate market. Each city, county, incorporated vs. unincorporated area and neighborhood has very different rules and regulations. We are here to keep you informed and supported on your investments and also to help make it a bit easier to decide where, how and what to invest in.

Multi-family Income Properties in SLO County

Fixers

DEFINITIONS

So that we have some common language on how we identify some of the various types of investment properties as well as various investment strategies, let’s start with some definitions:

Short Term Rental (STR):

This type of rental is a fully furnished rental that leases for less than 30 days at a time. This is a very highly sought after type of investment and as such, many cities and counties have made very strict rules and regulations that govern the licensing of these home-based businesses. Sometimes these are also called “Vacation Rentals.”

Mid Term Rental (MTR):

This type of rental is also fully furnished and rents for 30 days minimum on a month to month basis. A typical stay is 30-90 days. Oftentimes, the utilities are included in the rental fee and are an additional expense for the property owner. The MTR has a lot less restrictions and is not usually required to also be mostly owner-occupied. Sites such as Furnished Finder, Airbnb or VRBO are where you will most often find these MTR properties listed.

Long Term Rental (LTR):

This type of rental has a 12 month or more lease and can be rented furnished or unfurnished.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU):

An ADU is a separate liveable unit on the same property as a primary residence that has a full kitchen, bathroom and can be rented furnished or unfurnished. There are restrictions in some areas regarding ADU’s and if they are allowed for STR/MTR. These restrictions are mainly in areas where affordable housing is at an all-time low, sensitive coastal habitats or where water is a community issue.

SLO COUNTY OVERVIEW

San Luis Obispo sits just about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the beautiful central coast of California. The area truly has something to offer everyone. Year round tourism that is centered around food, viticulture, amazing state parks, hiking, biking, surfing and so much more makes SLO County a powerful real estate investment market. The county consists of 7 cities and many unincorporated communities.

What's the difference between a city and an unincorporated area in San Luis Obispo County?

Let’s get really clear on the difference:

A city is governed by a local government of elected and non-elected officials, and also have their own public services. An unincorporated area does not have a local government, is overseen by the county government and its set of policies and also utilizes county public services. Oftentimes, an unincorporated areas allow for a broader range of investment opportunities due to less restrictions than neighboring incorporated cities.

What are the cities and unincorporated areas of SLO County?

INCORPORATED CITIES

City of Paso Robles

City of Atasacadero

City of San Luis Obispo

City of Morro Bay

City of Arroyo Grande

City of Grover Beach

City of Pismo Beach

UNINCORPORATED ZONES

SLO County Building Department ( Regulate areas outside of city limits)

Templeton

Oceano

Nipomo

Creston

Santa Margarita/Pozo

Shandon

San Miguel

UNINCORPORATED COASTAL

San Simeon

Cambria

Cayucos

Los Osos

Avila Beach

COASTAL INVESTMENT

AVILA BEACH | LOS OSOS | CAYUCOS | CAMBRIA | SAN SIMEON

These 5 unincorporated areas are all located right on the beautiful coastline halfway between Santa Barbara and San Francisco. As you are driving north on HWY 101 from Santa Barbara the first community you will come across is Avila Beach, followed by Los Osos, then Cayucos which is off HWY 1 onto Cambria and lastly San Simeon. Each of these very popular tourist locations have their own charm and unique feel.

AVILA BEACH

A small seaside beach town with loads of charm, Avila Beach is tucked away in the coastal cove of San Luis Obispo Bay. With beautiful beaches, a new camping spot (Flying Flags Avila), wine tasting, boutique shops and delicious dining options. Avila beach is a year round tourist haven. Avila Barn or Sea Canyon offer tourists a peek into the world of local agriculture, soak in natural hot springs at either Sycamore Mineral Hot Springs or Avila Hot Springs. A Central Coast must see!

Keep in mind, half of Avila Beach is considered to be in the Coastal Zone, which entails further regulation on development
ZIP CODES: 93424
More Information / Links: Avila Beach Community Plan can be found here with loads of info on this sweet beach town.

ADU's:

For SLO County specific guidelines for Accessory Dwelling Units, check out SLO County ADU Codes. However, to really understand what can be built in this coastal community, a thorough discussion of an individual property is a must. Reach out to the SLO County building department

Key Points:
- ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
- Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
- Requirements include Plot Plan Approval and a notice to neighbors provided if the property is within the Coastal Zone

RV Pads:

If you’re thinking of adding an RV pad to rent out, check out the county's municode to determine what you can do.

STR’s:

For general rules for vacation rentals take a look in the county’s municode

Key Points:
- Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration
- Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
- A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
Avila Beach Specific Rules:
- No STRs will be approved if they are within 50 feet of an existing vacation rental or visitor-serving accommodation
- AirDNA - Look at local rental rates to determine your best plan

Start an Avila Beach Investment Property Search Here.

LOS OSOS

Los Osos is a small beach community with amazing state park access, hiking, beautiful beaches and an overall small town feel. There has recently been a boom with an influx of families moving in and locally owned businesses opening up. This is a true small town with a community running strong and thriving together. The investment property potential is high here, the tricky part is that the properties for sale are few and far between so when an opportunity pops up buyers need to move quickly.

ZIP CODES: 93402
ADU: Currently due to water supply concerns and being part of a sensitive coastal habitat new ADU construction is not allowed, but JADU (guesthouse) are allowed! You can find all the specifics here and here details on guesthouse guidelines here.
RV Pads: If you’re thinking of adding an RV pad to rent out, take a look at the county municode or for additional details, the county’s website to determine what you can do.
STR’s: All the details you need to start earning income on your short term rental in Los Osos can be found here. For more information on the Los Osos Vacation Rental ordinances, read this article
- Key Points:
  - Requirements include obtaining a Minor Use Permit, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration
    - Supplementary to the Minor Use Permit, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
  - A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
  - Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.
- Los Osos Specific Rules:
  - The maximum number of approved vacation rentals cannot exceed 55
  - Vacation rentals are not allowed in multi-family dwellings
  - No STRs will be approved if they are within 50 feet of an existing residential vacation rental
- AirDNA - Look at local rental rates to determine your best plan

Start a Los Osos Investment Property Search Here.

CAYUCOS

Cayucos is really a small town gem on the Central Coast of California. With its grand 4th of July celebration, Holiday parades, Polar Bear Plunge and main downtown strip bursting with locally owned business and restaurants.

ZIP CODES: 93430
ADU: Once you have identified a property the first step is to contact the county and determine what type of buildings you are allowed to add to the site. You can find all the specifics here and details on ADU & Guesthouse guidelines here.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Can not be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval and a notice to neighbors provided if the property is within the Coastal Zone
RV Pads: If you’re thinking of adding an RV pad to rent out, take a look at the county municode or for additional details, the county’s website to determine what you can do.
STR’s: Determining eligibility is the property’s proximity to other existing licensed rentals. This link will take you to to the zoning map and details on specific distance and booking limitations can be found here.
- Key Points:
  - Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
    - Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
  - A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
  - Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.
- Cayucos Specific Rules:
  - For residential single-family vacation rentals, no new vacation rentals will be approved if they are less than 100 feet away from the nearest approved vacation rental
    - For residential multi-family vacation rentals, the same rule applies but for 50 feet
- AirDNA - Look at local rental rates to determine your best plan

Start a Cayucos Investment Property Search Here

CAMBRIA

Cambria is just south of San Simeon along the coast with beautiful evergreens and housing communities nestled in the rolling hills. Filled with small mom and pop shops and restaurants the potential for investments here is quite high. Great small town atmosphere with access to beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

ZIP CODES: 93428
ADU: Currently ADU’s cannot be built in the Coastal Zone in Cambria due to water shortages. However a guest house or Junior ADU could be possible check in here for more details and with the county building department here.
Vacation Rental /STR: Primary factor determining eligibility is the property’s proximity to other existing licensed rentals. Check the zoning map
- Key Points:
  - Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
    - Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
  - A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
  - Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.
- Cambria Specific Rules:
  - For residential single-family vacation rentals, no new vacation rentals will be approved if they are less than 200 feet away from the nearest approved vacation rental
    - Or a 150 foot radius
  - Some important steps must be taken including:
    - Notifying neighbors of an ownership change or intent to establish an STR
    - Posting of contact information on the exterior of the property in case neighbors need to report violations

Start Your Cambria Investment Property Search Here

INVESTING WITHIN A CITY BOUNDARY

There are 7 cities within SLO County each has its own government body making policy on ADU’s and STR and many are updating their policy currently. Several of the below cities are working together to create building plans that work together as these communities are not far in distance and have many of the same environmental and population concerns. As experts in the ADU and STR Central Coast market we will continue to update our detailed information as it changes.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

San Luis Obispo is an amazing city with locally owned shops, award winning restaurants, home to Cal Poly, activities such as wine tasting, hiking, biking are plenty and the beautiful tree lined streets and historic homes are sure to appeal to the investor in you.

ZIP CODE: 93401
ADU: For details on the City of SLO’s ADU Ordinance, click here. Details on adding a tiny home on wheels in the City of SLO can be found here
- Key Points:
  - ADUs can be built in AG, C/OS, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, or O (Office) zones
  - Must obtain a building permit and must get approval without discretionary review
RV Pads: There is a 7 day max parking limit on an RV in a private driveway within the city of SLO. The RV can not be plugged into utility services and may be used for housing guests of onsite residence. Detailed code policy can be found here.
STR’s: Short Term Rentals within the City of San Luis Obispo require a Homestay Permit which can be found here. For more detailed information on SLO City’s vacation rental ordinances, click here.
- One of the requirements of the Homestay Permit is that the home must be owner occupied for a majority of the year.
  - We highly recommended calling the city to verify if the property is a good candidate for a Homestay Permit and they can be reached at 805-781-7170.
- Owners must also collect the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT, also called "bed tax" or "hotel tax") and the Tourism Business Improvement District Tax.
- AirDNA - Look at local rental rates to determine your best plan

Start Your San Luis Obispo Investment Property Search Here

PASO ROBLES

Paso Robles is known for its wineries and olive groves. It is close to the coastal beaches, has an amazing quaint downtown with locally owned stores, and award winning restaurants. With so much to see and do including the yearly Midstate Fair and the annual wine harvest and crush, tourism is thriving in Paso Robles.

ZIP CODE: 93446
ADU: ADU guidelines for the city of Paso Robles can be found here
- Must apply through the city and pay the fees based on the zone the property falls in.
- Key Points:
  - No ADUs or JADUs permitted after January 1, 2020 may be rented for less than 30 days
  - Must obtain a building permit and a deed restriction
RV Pads: Owners within the city can apply for a 72 hour RV parking permit here. The RV can not be connected to city utilities and may not have overnight guests.
- RVs are allowed to be parked in private driveways for no longer than 180 days and are obligated to follow other guidelines set by the city
STR’s: No-Host Short Term Rentals in the city limits are at capacity with 325 total permits. There is an option to be placed on a waiting list. Please call 805-237-3970 for details. A Homeshare option is available for STR’s when the owner is occupying the residence at the same time as the short term renter. Applications can be found here.
- For more information on the city’s STR ordinances, click here
- AirDNA - Look at local rental rates to determine your best plan

Start Your Paso Robles Investment Property Search Here

ATASCADERO

Downtown A-town is really on the up and up. Shopping, restaurants and pop up events are really gaining traction. Close to local wineries and a short 17 miles north of SLO and 10 miles south of Paso Robles, Atasacadero is a great place when the coast is cool and foggy to warm up over dinner on the patio.

ZIP CODE: 93422
ADU: The city of Atascadero outlines the city’s ADU guidelines here
- Key Points:
  - A 1-acre minimum lot size would be required for properties with a septic system.
  - Properties in Fire Hazard Zones will require additional analysis from the Fire Chief.
  - ADUs are not allowed as short-term rentals unless they have existed as short-term rentals prior to January 2020.
  - Otherwise, Atascadero will be following the guidelines as set by the State. Those guidelines can be viewed in the California Department of Housing and Community Development ADU Guidebook, found here.
RV Pads: Details on the city of Atascadero’s RV guidelines can be found here
STR’s: The city of Atasacadero’s ADU laws are outlined here.
- Key Points:
  - Must obtain a Home Occupation Business License and register to collect Transient Occupancy Taxes
  - No ADUs or JADUs permitted after January 1, 2020 may used as vacation rentals
Best Points of Contact: Office of the Planning - David Muehlhausen, Deputy Director/Chief Building Official: 805-461-5035

Start Your Atascadero Investment Property Search Here

ARROYO GRANDE

Arroyo Grande has beautiful rolling hills and is close to the beach towns spanning HWY 101 and downtown SLO and wineries. Downtown has a great historic feel, with locally owned shops, antique shops and restaurants. A great place to stay with quick access to the entire Central Coast.

ZIP CODES: 93420
ADU: The city of Arroyo Grande’s ADU Ordinance can be found here. Additional information can be found on the city's website
- Key Points:
  - The ADU may not be rented out for less than 31 days
  - A building permit must be obtained
RV Pads: All information on the city of Arroyo Grande’s RV laws can be found in the municode
STR’s: According to the city of Arroyo Grande’s website, the city has capped further issuance of new vacation rental licenses. However, in the case that this information is outdated, find contact information for the city’s building department here.
- Generally, STRs are allowed with a Minor Use Permit and by following the process which is outlined here on the city page.
Best Points of Contact: Community Development Department at (805) 473-5420
More Information / Links: https://www.arroyogrande.org/

Start Your Arroyo Grande Investment Property Search Here

MORRO BAY

Morro Bay is an incredibly scenic tourist town with The Rock (ancient volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach) as the landmark which sits within Morro Bay State Park. The State Park is full of lagoons, bird watching and thriving with ocean life. Full home non-owner occupied STR are at cap and there is a waiting list of over 130 homes. Homeshares and MTR or LTR are the options available for investments in this year round tourist town.

ZIP CODES: 93442, 93443
ADU: Information on the process of applying for and constructing an ADU in Morro Bay can be found here. In order to build an ADU, a Coastal Development Permit is required. Additional information can be found in the city’s municode.
RV Pads: Additional information can be found in Morro Bay’s municode
- RVs including boats are permitted on private property, but must be located outside of any required front or street side yard setbacks.
- RVs cannot be utilized for sleeping quarters, sanitary or cooking facilities.
- RVs may not be connected to utilities, including, but not limited to, electricity, gas, water or sewer.
- RVs and boats cannot be parked in the street for more than 72 hours.
STR’s: Morro Bay is currently at 175 vacation rentals which is the cap amount allowed for full home or non-owner occupied STR’s. There is a waiting list of over 100 homes. For additional information on Morro Bay’s STR ordinance, click here
- However, there is no cap for home-share STRs.
More Information / Links: https://www.morro-bay.ca.us/207/Building-Division

Start Your Morro Bay Investment Property Search Here

GROVER BEACH

Grover Beach is located 92 miles north of Santa Barbara and 150 miles south from Monterey along the beautiful Central Coast of California coastline. This beach town offers great outdoor adventures on the dunes, annual monarch butterfly migration, locally owned restaurants and shops. Tourism is also a year round event in Grover Beach as some of the nicest months are October-December.

ZIP CODES: 93433, 93445, 93483
ADU: Information on the city of Grover Beach’s ADU ordinance can be found in this brochure.
- Key Points:
  - If located in the Coastal Zone a Coastal Development Permit will be required.
  - The city also recommends obtaining a Zoning Clearance.
RV Pads: Recreational vehicles no greater than 22 feet are allowed to be parked in the driveway of a property. If located on private property, the RV cannot be a dwelling unless permitted to be so.
STR’s: All coastal zone STR permits for non-owner occupied STRs for the city of Grover Beach have been issued. There is a waiting list, along with other information, located here
- Best Points of Contact: All STR inquiries can be answered at (805) 473-4520
More Information / Links: https://www.grover.org/421/Contact-Us

Start Your Grover Beach Investment Property Search Here

PISMO BEACH

Pismo Beach has year round tourism. The Pier was just redone bringing a revitalized feel to the center of town, with food trucks weekly and art events throughout. The annual Clam Festival brings folks from all around to visit this beautiful beach town. Annual monarch butterfly migration is simply stunning. There is a more laid back feel, with fish and chip restaurants a plenty and souvenir shops on street corners.

ZIP CODES: 93448, 93449
ADU: All detailed information on the construction of an ADU within the city limits of Pismo Beach can be found here. Additional information can be found on the city’s website here
- Key Points:
  - An ADU in the city of Pismo Beach can not be rented as a short term rental.
  - ADUs and JADUs are not permitted in the R-1 zone above the intersection of Longview Avenue and Stratford Street
  - For projects outside the Coastal Zone, a Zoning Clearance and Building Permit is required
    - Projects in the Coastal Zone will have to obtain a Coastal Development Permit
RV’s: The city’s RV ordinance can be found here
STR’s: On November 7, 2023, the city passed an ordinance precluding the issuance of new STR licenses in Pismo Beach. No new permits will be issued at this time. You can find all the details, rules and regulations here.
- You can find additional information on Pismo Beach STR laws here
More Information / Links: Pismo Beach Building Department

Start Your Pismo Beach Investment Property Search Here

INVESTING WITHIN THE COUNTY BOUNDARY

TEMPLETON

Templeton takes you back to slower days and simpler ways! Downtown has a historic feel to it with a contemporary flair. The old grain and feed store is still operating which adds a very agricultural feel. Award winning wineries are speckled throughout the beautiful countryside. Year round tourism and mainstreet 4th of July festivities are a very popular attraction.

ZIP CODES: 93465
ADU: Templeton follows the County guidelines for ADUs which can be found here. To inquire about building a unit or having a tiny home on a property you are interested in please contact the county planning department with the parcel number to determine the land use options for the parcel.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
  - Additional details regarding water and ADU construction in Templeton can be found here
STR’s: Templeton is subject to county of San Luis Obispo rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:
  - Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration
    - Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
  - A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
  - Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your Templeton Investment Property Search Here

OCEANO

Home to the only beach in the whole entire state that you can drive on! Many flock to Oceano to enjoy the dunes on ATV, dune buggies or horseback. The 18 mile long dune complex is the longest in the state. Casual dining, bonfires and a very relaxed feel are what make Oceano a must stop along the California Central Coast.

ZIP CODES: 93445, 93475
ADU: To inquire about building a unit or having a tiny home on wheels on a property you are interested in please contact the county planning department with the parcel number to determine the land use options for the parcel. Oceano also follows the county’s general ADU ordinance.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: For County STR laws, click here
- The building department can be reached at 805-781-5600

Start Your Oceano Investment Property Search Here

NIPOMO

Nipomo is an unincorporated town in San Luis Obispo County. Just north on HWY 101 from Santa Maria, Ca. With plenty of parks, beach access and open spaces, Nipono has plenty to offer everyone. Families and young professionals live in Nipomo, great schools, restaurants and home to some of the best agriculture in the county. Citrus, avocados, strawberries, lush vineyards and flower fields make the drive along Hwy 1 through Nipomo a must see.

ADU: For additional information on fees/costs for running an ADU in Nipomo, check out the city’s municode. To inquire about building a unit or having a tiny home wheels on a property you are interested in please contact the county planning department with the parcel number to determine the land use options for the parcel, and check out the county municode
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: Nipomo follows SLO County rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:
  - Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
    - Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
  - A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
  - Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your Nipomo Investment Property Search Here

CRESTON

Creston is a rural town in unincorporated San Luis Obispo County. Crestons claim to fame was that it was home to Cardiff Stud Farm (Creston Farms), a place once owned by Canadian-American television personality Alex Trebek, and where a number of retired American thoroughbred racehorses were taken care of. Cardiff Stud Farm was sold in 2008 and is now an event center called Windfall Farms. Rolling hills and open spaces make up this small quaint town.

ZIP CODES: 93432
ADU: Mostly the county guidance will be your main source for rules and regulation, and for details look in the municode.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: Follows county guidance and policy of San Luis Obispo rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:

Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
- Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your Creston Investment Property Search Here

SANTA MARGARITA /POZO

Santa Margarita and Pozo are located just north of San Luis Obispo off of HWY 101. Known as the land of adventure and refined taste by the locals. Farm to table dining, world class wineries, and the famous Carrizo Plain National Monument known for its annual wildflower blooms. Home to the tranquil waters of Santa Margarita lake and recreation area, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

ZIP CODES: 93453
ADU: Mostly the county guidance will be your main source for rules and regulation, and for details look in the municode.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: Follows county guidance and policy of San Luis Obispo rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:

Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
- Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your Santa Margarita Investment Property Search Here

SHANDON

Shandon is a small unincorporated town in San Luis Obispo County with a population of 1,054. Living in Shandon offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. Find out about the history of Shandon when you take a trip to James Dean Memorial Junction. Make some time to visit the monuments while you're in the area.

ZIP CODES: 93461
ADU: Mostly the county guidance will be your main source for rules and regulation, and for details look in the municode.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: Follows county guidance and policy of San Luis Obispo rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:

Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
- Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your Shandon Investment Property Search Here

SAN MIGUEL

San Miguel is a town just north of Paso Robles on Hwy 101 with a population of 2,536. San Miguel is one of many San Luis Obispo County unincorporated areas. Living in San Miguel offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. Home Mission San Miguel, where visitors today can see beautifully restored and reconstructed buildings and untouched interior murals provide a unique opportunity to view a piece of California history.

ZIP CODES: 93451
ADU: Mostly the county guidance will be your main source for rules and regulation, and for details look in the municode.
- Key Points:
  - ADUs must be accessory to your primary dwelling
  - Cannot be rented for less than 30 days, unless approved to do so prior to May 11, 2023
  - Requirements include Plot Plan Approval
STR’s: Follows county guidance and policy of San Luis Obispo rules and regulations on short term rentals which can be found here. For a more detailed set of guidelines, head to the county’s municode.
- Key Points:

Requirements include obtaining a Zoning Clearance, Business License, and Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.
- Supplementary to the Zoning Clearance, evidence must be submitted of notifying water/sewage disposable providers of STR plans
A maximum of 4 individual tenancies per month is allowed
Check here for details on the county’s vacation rental zoning clearance.

Start Your San Miguel Investment Property Search Here