MONTEREY COUNTY - TOT Registration for NEW Lodging Establishments

What you need to know to get started:

1. Each operator of any lodging establishment renting occupancy to transients must register the business to obtain a TOT certificate within 30 days of commencing business.

2. Once the application is submitted, please allow 1-2 weeks for processing. Once received, the TOT Certificate must be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises at all times.

3. Each operator shall file a TOT Return, either by mail or online, by the last day of the month following the close of each quarter.

4. Monterey County Tourism Improvement District (MCTID) Fee: Each operator shall indicate in the TOT application if they are registering either a limited service, full-service or full-service luxury lodging facility. Limited service are facilities offering select or focused amenities without a full-service restaurant. Full-service facilities offer full-service lodging with food & beverage revenues. Full-service luxury have characteristics of a five star hotel. If you are uncertain on your MCTID, please contact the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau at (831) 657-6428.

5. A separate TOT registration must be submitted for each property.

Welcome to Monterey County! Starting a new business can be exciting and challenging. As you get started, it is important to note that issuance of a TOT Certificate does not authorize any person to conduct any unlawful business, or conduct any lawful business in an unlawful manner, nor to operate without strictly complying with all local applicable laws, including but not limited to those requiring a permit from any board, commission, department or office of Monterey County. The TOT Certificate does not constitute a permit to operate. Please contact the Monterey County Housing and Community Development for questions concerning permits required to operate. We wish you the greatest success in your new venture!

If you need any assistance with the application process, please call the Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector Office at (831) 755-5017.