Score: +14
(29/9/15)
Orange County Grand Jury
• 2024-2025
Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals Grand Jury
Published: May 14, 2025
22 pages
⚠️ Translation Notice: This content has been automatically translated. The original English text is the official version. Translation may contain errors.
⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.
Findings and Recommendations 12 findings
F1
Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
Even with robust Code Enforcement, a city’s statutory ban on STRs is not enough to keep STRs from operating.
No recommendations for this finding
F4
Anaheim’s ordinance requires OBAs to report Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) directly to the city. This has led to the favorable consequence that unpermitted STR income is reported to the city.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1
Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every three years thereafter. (F4, F12)
R3
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. (F4, F12)
F5
Proactive home inspections of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances.
No recommendations for this finding
F6
Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
F7
Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
Related Recommendations (4)
R4
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (F7, F8)
R5
Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by November 30, 2025. (F7, F8)
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
F8
In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties.
Related Recommendations (4)
R4
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (F7, F8)
R5
Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by November 30, 2025. (F7, F8)
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
F9
Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs.
No recommendations for this finding
F10
Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
Related Recommendations (2)
R6
Cities with a permit waiting list should implement strategies to remove non-revenue- generating licenses to allow for fair access by December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter. (F7,
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
F11
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every two years thereafter. (F11)
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1
Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every three years thereafter. (F4, F12)
R3
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. (F4, F12)
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its reviewing authority, the governing body of the public agency shall comment to the presiding judge of the superior court on the findings and recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of the governing body, and every elected county officer or agency head for which the grand jury has responsibility pursuant to Section 914.1 shall comment to the presiding judge of the superior court, with an information copy sent to the board of supervisors, on the findings and recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of that county officer or agency head and any agency or agencies which that officer or agency head supervises or controls. In any city and county, the mayor shall also comment on the findings and recommendations. All of these comments and reports shall forthwith be submitted to the presiding judge of the superior court who impaneled the grand jury. A copy of all responses to grand jury reports shall be placed on file with the clerk of the public agency and the office of the county clerk, or the mayor when applicable, and shall remain on file in those offices. One copy shall be placed on file with the applicable grand jury final report by, and in the control of the currently impaneled grand jury, where it shall be maintained for a minimum of five years. Penal Code Section 933.05: (a) For purposes of subdivision (b) of Section 933, as to each grand jury finding, the responding person or entity shall indicate one of the following: (1) The respondent agrees with the finding. (2) The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding, in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. (b) For purposes of subdivision (b) of Section 933, as to each grand jury recommendation, the responding person or entity shall report one of the following actions: (1) The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action. (2) The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a timeframe for implementation. (3) The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a timeframe for the matter to be prepared for discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency when applicable. This timeframe shall not exceed six months from the date of publication of the grand jury report. (4) The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation therefor. (c) However, if a finding or recommendation of the grand jury addresses budgetary or personnel matters of a county agency or department headed by an elected officer, both the agency or department head and the board of supervisors shall respond if requested by the grand jury, but the response of the board of supervisors shall address only those budgetary or personnel matters over which it has some decision-making authority. The response of the elected agency or department head shall address all aspects of the findings or recommendations affecting his or her agency or department. (d) A grand jury may request a subject person or entity to come before the grand jury for the purpose of reading and discussing the findings of the grand jury report that relates to that person or entity in order to verify the accuracy of the findings prior to their release. (e) During an investigation, the grand jury shall meet with the subject of that investigation regarding the investigation, unless the court, either on its own determination or upon request of the foreperson of the grand jury, determines that such a meeting would be detrimental. (f) A grand jury shall provide to the affected agency a copy of the portion of the grand jury report relating to that person or entity two working days prior to its public release and after the approval of the presiding judge. No officer, agency, department, or governing body of a public agency shall disclose any contents of the report prior to the public release of the final report.
Agency Responses 23
Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.
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City of Anaheim 08/12/25
August 12, 2025
•
4 pages
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No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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City of Brea 08/14/25
August 14, 2025
•
3 pages
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No structured response data extracted yet.
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City of Buena Park Supplemental Response 09/08/25
September 08, 2025
•
5 pages
• 18 responses
•
Score: +2
(+3, 4, -1)
View Details ▾
18 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County’s hiring process sometimes limits the HCA’s ability to hire the best-qualified candidates.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F1 I Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Response: The City of Buena Park agrees with this finding. Although this has not been the experience in Buena Park, there is a strong likelihood athat large events will increase the demand for both hotel and STR bookings. The Honorable Maria D. Hernandez Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals Page 3
F2
Not all HCA employees fully cooperate with the HCA Office of Compliance.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F2 The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance. Response: The City of Buena Park partially disagrees with this finding. Buena Park originally adopted Ordinance No. 1675 to address resident concerns associated with problematic STRs, but Buena Park has not seen a substantial growth in the number or usage of STRs in the five years since its adoption of Ordinance No. 1675, nor have STRs been a substantial source of public nuisance in the City since.
R2
The Grand Jury recommends that all levels of HCA management refresh their knowledge of compliance requirements on a semi-annual basis effective December 31, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2 Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by Decembe
R3
The Grand Jury recommends that whenever any HCA employee has compliance-related questions or concerns, they take those concerns to their supervisor and to the Office of Compliance. This should be reinforced by leadership sharing this recommendation in regular communication channels, such as monthly town halls and weekly senior staff meetings, commencing September 30, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3 Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. (
R4
The Grand Jury commends CHS and the Sheriff’s Department for their excellent working relationship and recommends that this be set forth in a written memorandum of understanding to extend beyond the terms of the current leadership. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4 Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (
F5
Public Health Services does not routinely disseminate information to the Orange County public on communicable diseases, if any.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F5 Proactive home inspection of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances. Response: The City of Buena Park agrees with this finding. Buena Park requires an inspection prior to commencing operation of an STR, an annual inspection for all operating STRs, and an inspection prior to renewal of an STR permit.
R5
The Grand Jury recommends that BHS leadership engage in proactive planning on an annual basis to align their priorities with funding changes by June 30, 2026, and yearly thereafter. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5 Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by Novembe
F6
Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F6 Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices. 6650 Beach Boulevard I p.o. Box 5009 l Buena Park, CA l 90622-5009 l[714] 562-3610 l Fax [714] 562-3770 I BuenaPark.com The Honorable Maria D. Hernandez Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals Page 2 Response: The City of Buena Park agrees with this finding. While a comprehensive audit of TOT remittance from STRs has not been conducted, Buena Park believes it likely that a portion of the TOT remittance is not being captured as a result of direct bookings.
R6
The Grand Jury recommends that PHS generate an informational report to the general public on communicable diseases known to HCA by December 31, 2025, and at least quarterly thereafter. (F5) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public a...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R6 Cities with a permit waiting list should implement strategies to remove non- revenue-generating licenses to allow for fair access by Decembe
F7
Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F7 Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems fortracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff. Response: The City of Buena Park partially disagrees with this finding. The City utilizes RentalScape (Deckard) for STR tracking and TOT, which it has found to be both user-friendly and effective for the City. Prior to use of RentalScape, the City utilized Host Compliance, which was also an effective soffware for tracking STRs.
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7 Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by Septembe
F8
In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F8 In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties. Response: The City of Buena Park partially disagrees with this finding. As regulated by the Buena Park Municipal Code, any occupancy that exceeds 29 days no longer qualifies as a "short-term" rental (or a transient occupancy) and is not subject to TOT.
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 8, 2025 The Honorable Maria D. Hernandez Presiding Judge of the Superior Court 700 Civic Center Drive West Santa Ana, CA 92701 RE: City of Buena Park Amended Response to Grand Jury Report Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals Dear Honorable Judge Hernandez: The Buena Park City Council has reviewed the Orange County Grand Jury's report entitled, Long- Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals. As requested, the City of Buena Park's responses to the findings and recommendations of the aforementioned report are as follows: FINDINGS FI Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agenc...
F9
Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F9 Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs. Response: The City of Buena Park partially disagrees with this finding. While the RentalScape software tracks ove
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9 City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (
F10
Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10) Response: The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted in the City of Buena Park. The City of Buena Park does not have a permit waiting list.
R10
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department should collaborate with local law enforcement agencies and non-profit organizations that receive reports of hate crimes and incidents to develop a centralized portal or reporting mechanism. This would streamline the process, improve data capture, and make it easier to track and address hate crimes and incidents. This should be done by December 31, 2025. (F4, F7, F10)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 10,000 STR booking sites, it is possible that there are booking sites, particularly in Foreign languages, which are not being monitored and could result in unpermitted STRs. FIO Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs. Response: The City of Buena Park agrees with this finding. Buena Park does not have an STR waitlist and instead reviews new STR applications immediately upon receipt, but the City agrees that delayed review could contribute to unpermitted STRs in the same way delayed pl...
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
F12 City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve SerVICe. Response: The City of Buena Park disagrees with this finding. The Planning Directors Association of Orange County (PDAOC), which includes Planning and Community Development Directors from throughout the County, meet on a regular basis to discuss issues of countywide concern and share information and strategies for addressing those issues. Additionally, the Municipal Management Association of Southern California (MMASC), which inclu...
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City of Cypress 07/21/
July 21, 2025
•
2 pages
• 8 responses
•
Score: +3
(+3, 1, 0)
View Details ▾
8 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County’s hiring process sometimes limits the HCA’s ability to hire the best-qualified candidates.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Finding 1: Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County. Response: The City agrees with the finding.
R1
The Grand Jury recommends that the HCA continue to collaborate with County HRS to further streamline the recruitment and processing of applicants through additional job fairs and other recruitment efforts including, but not limited to, one-day hiring events. (F1)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Recommendation 1: Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by Decembe
F2
Not all HCA employees fully cooperate with the HCA Office of Compliance.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Finding 2: The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance. Response: The City agrees with the finding.
R2
The Grand Jury recommends that all levels of HCA management refresh their knowledge of compliance requirements on a semi-annual basis effective December 31, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Recommendation 2: Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and their associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by Decembe
F3
Correctional Health has built and maintains a collaborative relationship with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, benefitting the County, its employees, and the incarcerated population.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Finding 3: Even with robust Code Enforcement, a city’s statutory ban on STRs is not enough to keep STRs from operating. Response: The City agrees with the finding.
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Recommendation 9: City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (
F11
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11) Response: The City will take this recommendation under advisement. While the 2026 World Cup is not likely to increase in STR activity in Cypress, the 2028 Olympics may. In fact, the City is already working to support its hotel operators to ensure their success during the Olympics.
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
Finding 12: City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service. Response: The City partially agrees with the finding. While there is no formal communication structure dedicated solely to STR among Orange County cities, collaboration does occur. In addition to venues for elected officials like the League of California Cities and The Association of California Cities – Orange County, the county city managers and planning directors operate professional organizations to discuss a range of mu...
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City of Fullerton 07/20/25
July 20, 2025
•
7 pages
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No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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City of Irvine 11/05/25
November 05, 2025
•
5 pages
• 8 responses
•
Score: +1
(+2, 1, -1)
View Details ▾
8 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County’s hiring process sometimes limits the HCA’s ability to hire the best-qualified candidates.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F1 – Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County. Response: The City of Irvine agrees with this finding. Short-term rentals (STRs) have been a longstanding issue facing jurisdictions across the region, particularly with the rise of online platforms facilitating these types of accommodations. The City of Irvine has proactively addressed this issue by adopting a citywide ban on short-term rentals. This prohibition went into effect in Septembe
R1
The Grand Jury recommends that the HCA continue to collaborate with County HRS to further streamline the recruitment and processing of applicants through additional job fairs and other recruitment efforts including, but not limited to, one-day hiring events. (F1)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1– Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by Decembe
F2
Not all HCA employees fully cooperate with the HCA Office of Compliance.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F2 – The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance. Response: The City of Irvine agrees with this finding. This observation is consistent with the experiences and concerns voiced by many Irvine City of Irvine Response to Grand Jury Report Novembe
R2
The Grand Jury recommends that all levels of HCA management refresh their knowledge of compliance requirements on a semi-annual basis effective December 31, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2 – Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated City of Irvine Response to Grand Jury Report Novembe
F3
Correctional Health has built and maintains a collaborative relationship with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, benefitting the County, its employees, and the incarcerated population.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F3 – Even with robust Code Enforcement, a city’s statutory ban on STRs is not enough to keep STRs from operating. Response: The City of Irvine disagrees partially with this finding based on our experience since the implementation of our STR ban. In 2018, the City of Irvine enacted a comprehensive ban on STRs in response to significant community concerns related to neighborhood disruption, public safety, and housing availability. Since that time, the City has implemented a strong and proactive code enforcement strategy to ensure compliance with the ban. Irvine’s Code Enforcement team has been h...
R5
The Grand Jury recommends that BHS leadership engage in proactive planning on an annual basis to align their priorities with funding changes by June 30, 2026, and yearly thereafter. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 5, 2025 We trust this response from the City of Irvine will be filed with the Orange County Grand Jury so that anyone reading the Grand Jury report will be able to evaluate it in light of Irvine’s response set forth above. We appreciate the Grand Jury’s attention to this important topic as cities throughout Orange County work to balance the impacts of STRs on their communities. Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. Sincerely, Larry Agran Mayor cc: Orange County Grand Jury, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 ec: Irvine City Council Jeff Melching, Rutan and T...
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9 – City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. Response: The City of Irvine agrees with this recommendation and supports increased regional collaboration to address the shared challenges and evolving legal landscape surrounding STRs. While cities may take different approaches to STR regulation based on local needs and policy objectives, regular communication among city leaders offers a valuable opportunity to exchange best practices, enforcement strategies, and legal insights. Th...
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
F12 – City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service. Response: The City of Irvine respectfully disagrees with this finding as it pertains to our internal operations. Within the City of Irvine, interdepartmental coordination is a key strength of our approach to STR enforcement. The Community Development and Public Safety departments, in particular, maintain regular and ongoing communication to address City of Irvine Response to Grand Jury Report Novembe
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City of Laguna Beach 09/23/25
September 23, 2025
•
6 pages
• 19 responses
•
Score: +9
(+9, 1, 0)
View Details ▾
19 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County’s hiring process sometimes limits the HCA’s ability to hire the best-qualified candidates.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F1: Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. STRs have long existed and Laguna Beach has had regulations in place since 1999.
R1
The Grand Jury recommends that the HCA continue to collaborate with County HRS to further streamline the recruitment and processing of applicants through additional job fairs and other recruitment efforts including, but not limited to, one-day hiring events. (F1)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1. Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by Decembe
F2
Not all HCA employees fully cooperate with the HCA Office of Compliance.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F2: The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. The City has strengthened its regulatory framework through recent Municipal Code updates, including the proposed addition of Chapte
R2
The Grand Jury recommends that all levels of HCA management refresh their knowledge of compliance requirements on a semi-annual basis effective December 31, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2: Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by Decembe
R3
The Grand Jury recommends that whenever any HCA employee has compliance-related questions or concerns, they take those concerns to their supervisor and to the Office of Compliance. This should be reinforced by leadership sharing this recommendation in regular communication channels, such as monthly town halls and weekly senior staff meetings, commencing September 30, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3: Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. (
R4
The Grand Jury commends CHS and the Sheriff’s Department for their excellent working relationship and recommends that this be set forth in a written memorandum of understanding to extend beyond the terms of the current leadership. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4: Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (
F5
Public Health Services does not routinely disseminate information to the Orange County public on communicable diseases, if any.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F5: Proactive home inspections of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. Inspections are required under Laguna Beach’s permitting process, and the new licensing ordinance will enhance this 505 FOREST AVE. ● LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 ● TEL (949) 497-3311 ● FAX (949) 497-0771 Honorable Marie Hernandez, Presiding Judge Septembe
R5
The Grand Jury recommends that BHS leadership engage in proactive planning on an annual basis to align their priorities with funding changes by June 30, 2026, and yearly thereafter. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 5.84, the City has authority to not renew or revoke active licenses for operators who fail to comply with licensing and operational requirements. Also, revoked licenses carry a minimum waiting period of three years before reapplication. The City does not yet have a specific mechanism in the code to remove “inactive” or non-revenue-generating licensees from a waiting list solely on the basis of inactivity, but staff will evaluate whether such a provision should be added to improve fairness and revenue oversight.
F6
Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F6: Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. The new ordinance includes enhanced reporting and audit provisions to help address gaps in TOT collection.
R6
The Grand Jury recommends that PHS generate an informational report to the general public on communicable diseases known to HCA by December 31, 2025, and at least quarterly thereafter. (F5) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public a...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R6: Cities with a permit waiting list should implement strategies to remove non-revenue- generating licenses to allow for fair access by Decembe
F7
Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F7: Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. The City recognizes the need to improve financial oversight and has adopted a new ordinance (proposed Chapte
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7: Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by Septembe
F8
In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F8: In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. To improve compliance, the City has partnered with Granicus Host Compliance, a third-party monitoring service that tracks online short-term rental listings in real time. The system captures listing metadata, screenshots, and advertisement changes over time, helping to identify rentals that are misrepresented as long- term stays but are operated as short-term rentals. This evidence enables Code E...
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8: Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (
F9
Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F9: Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. Monitoring foreign-language listings presents challenges; however, the City’s partnership with Granicus Host Compliance enhances multilingual monitoring across major STR platforms. Staff continues to explore additional tools to support enforcement.
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9: City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (
F10
Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F10: Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding. Under the new Short-Term Lodging ordinance (Chapte
F11
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
F11: Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Response: The City of Laguna Beach agrees with the finding.
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
F12: City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service. Response: The City of Laguna Beach partially agrees with the finding. While there is no formal regional STR coordination body, City staff regularly engages with counterparts in neighboring jurisdictions to share best practices, enforcement strategies, and policy updates. The City supports increased collaboration and is open to participating in broader regional efforts to address STR issues. Recommendations:
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City of La Habra 08/04/25
August 04, 2025
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3 pages
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City of Lake Forest Supplemental Response 09/08/25
September 08, 2025
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City of La Palma 08/05/25
August 05, 2025
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City of Los Alamitos 07/22/25
July 22, 2025
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City of Orange 11/25/25
November 25, 2025
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City of San Clemente 08/07/25
August 07, 2025
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City of San Juan Capistrano 08/15/25
August 15, 2025
•
4 pages
• 18 responses
•
Score: -1
(+8, 1, -9)
View Details ▾
18 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County. The City of San Juan Capistrano agrees with this finding.
R1
Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every three years thereafter. (F4, F12)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every three years thereafter. This recommendation has already been implemented, as the City is continually reviewing its ordinances in response to new legislation, case law and market trends. The City of San Juan Capistrano is committed to complying with all applicable state laws and court rulings related to STRs. The City will continue to monitor legislative developments and court decisions and will...
F2
The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance. The City of San Juan Capistrano agrees with this finding.
Page 2 of 4 Proactive home inspections of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in
R2
Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every two years thereafter. (F11)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated TOT, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every two years thereafter. This recommendation has already been implemented, as City staff is actively engaged in conversation with neighboring agencies regarding potential event and training venues associated with the Olympics as well as opportunities to accommodate visitors who come to the region and require lodging.
R3
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating...
R3
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. (F4, F12)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of ordinances facilitating Voluntary Collection Agreements requiring OBAs to submit TOT directly, by June 30, 2026. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted.
R4
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (F7, F8)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would evaluate options for collecting TOT.
Page 4 of 4 Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to
F5
Proactive home inspections of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances. Based on the information provided in the report, the City of San Juan Capistrano agrees that proactive inspections of new and renewing STRs improve compliance with city ordinances. However, the City has not implemented this policy since there have been no new or renewing STRs within San Juan Capistrano. The City has not independently verified what practices other cities in Orange County have implemented. Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of
R5
Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by November 30, 2025. (F7, F8)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by November 30, 2025. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would explore auditing the TOT process. Cities with a permit waiting list should implement strategies to remove non-revenue-
R6
generating licenses to allow for fair access by December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the City, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. There is...
F6
Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
direct booking practices. The City of San Juan Capistrano acknowledges that Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) remitted directly by Online Booking Agencies (OBAs) may not capture all STR-related tax revenue due to direct booking practices that bypass these platforms. At this time, the City has not implemented mechanisms to track or verify TOT from direct bookings, since there has been very limited STR activity within the city. Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT
R6
Cities with a permit waiting list should implement strategies to remove non-revenue- generating licenses to allow for fair access by December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter. (F7,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
generating licenses to allow for fair access by December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the City, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. There is no permit waiting list. Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term
R7
rental TOT tracking systems by September 30,2026. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would evaluate options for TOT...
F7
Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
making the process less effective and more difficult for staff. Based on the information provided in the report, the City of San Juan Capistrano agrees that updating systems for tracking STRs and transient occupancy tax (TOT) would improve the efficiency of the process and make it easier for staff to manage. However, the City has not independently verified the systems used by other cities in Orange County and has not yet implemented any system for STR and TOT tracking since there has been very limited STR activity within the city. In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term...
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
rental TOT tracking systems by September 30,2026. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would evaluate options for TOT tracking. Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June
R8
30, 2026, and annually thereafter. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would explore TOT auditing optio...
F8
In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties. The City of San Juan Capistrano agrees that, in some cases, STRs may be improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals in an effort to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties. Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
30, 2026, and annually thereafter. Given the very limited amount of STR activity in the city, this recommendation will not be implemented, as it is not warranted. Should the City see an increase in STRs, staff would explore TOT auditing options. City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management
R9
strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. This recommendation has been implemented. Elected officials and City staff regularly communicate with each other on a variety of policy issues to discuss best practices and share information....
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. This recommendation has been implemented. Elected officials and City staff regularly communicate with each other on a variety of policy issues to discuss best practices and share information. This includes discussion of issues involving STRs. Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the Grand Jury report. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (949) 443-6314. Sincerely, _ _ Benjamin Siegel City Manager Orange County Grand Jury, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 cc: San Juan Capistra...
F10
Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs The City of San Juan Capistrano acknowledges the importance of effectively managing STRs to ensure compliance and capture potential revenue. However, the City does not maintain a waiting list for STR permits because there has been very limited STR activity within the city.
Page 3 of 4
F11
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The City of San Juan Capistrano agrees that large international events increase demand for STRs in the area where the events occur.
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service. The City of San Juan Capistrano disagrees with this finding. Elected officials and staff from agencies throughout the county regularly engage in communication with each other on a variety of topics, including issues related to STRs. RECOMMENDATIONS
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City of Santa Ana 12/02/25
December 02, 2025
•
35 pages
• 21 responses
•
Score: -2
(+0, 0, -2)
View Details ▾
21 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County’s hiring process sometimes limits the HCA’s ability to hire the best-qualified candidates.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F1: Despite the increasing media coverage of Online 1 Although STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County, the City Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new of Santa Ana has seen a significant rise of STRs within the last three phenomenon in Orange County. years, likely attributed to a growth in tourism following the global Covid-19 pandemic and the growth of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs).
R1
The Grand Jury recommends that the HCA continue to collaborate with County HRS to further streamline the recruitment and processing of applicants through additional job fairs and other recruitment efforts including, but not limited to, one-day hiring events. (F1)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1) zones and Homeowner Associations (HOAs) often have exclusions. Other cities permit unlimited STRs in a “vacation home zone” near the beach or an attraction. Still others allow one STR in a fixed radius (typically 300 feet), which effectively limits permits. At least three cities (Newport Beach, Dana Point, and Orange) have created waiting lists in response to having more applications than available permits. However, STR operators rarely voluntarily relinquish their permits. If an STR has been converted to a long-term rental, then it is no longer subject to TOT. Unless the STR operator info...
F2
Not all HCA employees fully cooperate with the HCA Office of Compliance.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2: The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade 1 The steady growth of STRs in Santa Ana has raised concerns of public raises concerns of potential public nuisance. nuisance and community disruption. These include: • Loud music and disruptive gatherings • Illegal parking of vehicles • Trash accumulation and lack of waste management These nuisances have resulted in adverse impacts on residential neighborhoods, challenging the City’s efforts to preserve quality of life and neighborhood integrity.
R2
The Grand Jury recommends that all levels of HCA management refresh their knowledge of compliance requirements on a semi-annual basis effective December 31, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 2, 2025 Also sent via email to: GrandJurySupport@occourts.org The Honorable Maria Hernandez Presiding Judge of the Superior Court 700 Civic Center Drive West Santa Ana, CA 92701 Orange County Grand Jury Attn: Liza Valenzuela, Grand Jury Support Staf
F3
Correctional Health has built and maintains a collaborative relationship with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, benefitting the County, its employees, and the incarcerated population.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
f 3 10. Orange County Grand Jury’s Investigative Report, Findings, and Recommendations Regarding Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals and City’s Response to the Findings and Recommendations Department(s): Recommended Action: Receive and file the Orange County Grand Jury’s investigative report, findings, and recommendations regarding long- term solutions to short-term rentals and authorize the City Manager to deliver the city’s response to the findings and recommendations to the presiding judge of the Superior Court. Attachment B Planning and Building Agency www.santa-ana.org/pb Item # 10 ...
R3
The Grand Jury recommends that whenever any HCA employee has compliance-related questions or concerns, they take those concerns to their supervisor and to the Office of Compliance. This should be reinforced by leadership sharing this recommendation in regular communication channels, such as monthly town halls and weekly senior staff meetings, commencing September 30, 2025. (F2)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 3, 2024); ongoing coordination among various departments and agencies on enforcement; and routine reevaluation of local land use regulatory ordinances, such as the City’s zoning code. Once authorized by the City Council, the responses documented in Exhibit 2 will be submitted to the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT There is no environmental impact associated with this action. FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. EXHIBIT(S) 1. County of Orange Grand Jury Investigative Report, Findings and Recommendations Regarding Long-Term Solutions ...
F4
Behavioral Health is undergoing and anticipating major funding changes and prioritizes their services in a reactive manner driven by State mandates.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F4: Anaheim’s ordinance requires OBAs to report Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) directly to the city. This has led to the favorable consequence that unpermitted STR income is reported to the city. 2024-2025 Orange County Grand Jury Page 15 Attachment B Long-Term Solutions to Short-Term Rentals
R4
The Grand Jury commends CHS and the Sheriff’s Department for their excellent working relationship and recommends that this be set forth in a written memorandum of understanding to extend beyond the terms of the current leadership. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4: Cities that allow STRs should evaluate the benefit of collecting TOT on a monthly basis by individual property, by June 30, 2026. (
F5
Public Health Services does not routinely disseminate information to the Orange County public on communicable diseases, if any.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5: Proactive home inspections of new and renewing STRs, which have been implemented in some Orange County cities, improve code enforcement and STR compliance with city ordinances.
R5
The Grand Jury recommends that BHS leadership engage in proactive planning on an annual basis to align their priorities with funding changes by June 30, 2026, and yearly thereafter. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5: Cities should require STRs to include the number of days rented per month per permit to facilitate short-term rental TOT desk audits by Novembe
F6
Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6: Direct remittance of taxes by OBAs does not capture all TOT for an STR because of direct booking practices.
R6
The Grand Jury recommends that PHS generate an informational report to the general public on communicable diseases known to HCA by December 31, 2025, and at least quarterly thereafter. (F5) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public a...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
r 6, 2016. https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/assets/la/Short_Term_Vacation_Rental_to_Coastal_Plan ning_&_Devt_Directors_120616.pdf. California Coastal Commission. "Recent LCP Policy Examples for Lower Cost Overnight Accommodations." 2023. https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/assets/lower-cost-coastal- lodging/LCOA-Doc2.pdf. Costar. "Summer Olympics Drove Paris Room Rates to All-Time Highs." CoStar, August 11, 2024. https://www.costar.com/article/54408592/summer-olympics-drove-paris-room-rates-to-all- time-highs. Dubetz, Alissa, Matt Horton, and Charlotte Kesteven. "Staying Power: The Effects of Sho...
F7
Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7: Some cities in Orange County have outdated systems for tracking short-term rental TOT making the process less effective and more difficult for staff.
R7
Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by September 30, 2026. (F7, F8, F10)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7: Cities that allow STRs should consider allocating resources to update their short-term rental TOT tracking systems by Septembe
F8
In some cases, STRs are improperly recharacterized as long-term rentals to circumvent the collection of TOT and any applicable penalties.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
f8e87357c81b1848 48b95b/1677256830192/BNLA_Annual+Report_2022-web.pdf. California Coastal Commission. "Short Term Vacation Rental Memo to Coastal Planning and Development Directors." Decembe
R8
Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (F6, F7, F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8: Cities that allow STRs should consider random multi-year audits to confirm TOT by June 30,2026, and annually thereafter. (
F9
Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9: Online Booking Agencies in foreign languages are outside the current capabilities of Code Enforcement to monitor and track unpermitted STRs.
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
R9: City leaders should have regular discussions with 1 City staff, along with the City Attorney’s Office, will continue to have each other to share STR management strategies on a regular discussions to share STR management strategies. This biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, collaboration also includes input from the Santa Ana Police 2026. Department. *For the purposes of this Orange County Grand Jury Report, City Position 1 indicates the recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action; City Position 2 indicates the recommendation has not ye...
F10
Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10: Cities that fail to routinely review their STR waiting lists potentially lose TOT revenue and contribute to a greater prevalence of unpermitted STRs.
F11
Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11: Locations that have hosted major events have reported an outsized increase in demand and pricing of STRs, a situation Orange County is likely to experience with the upcoming 2026 Los Angeles World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c)No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its reviewing authority, the governing body of the public agency shall comment to the presiding judge of the superior court on the findings and recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of the governing body, and every elected county officer or agency hea...
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City of Stanton 08/13/25
August 13, 2025
•
2 pages
• 7 responses
•
Score: +2
(+4, 1, -2)
View Details ▾
7 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
Despite the increasing media coverage of Online Booking Agencies (OBAs), STRs are not a new phenomenon in Orange County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
new phenomenon in Orange County. The respondent agrees with the finding. The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public
R1
Cities should review and begin to update ordinances to keep up with the rapidly changing nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every three years thereafter. (F4, F12)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
nature of court findings and legislation related to STRs, by December 31, 2025, and no less Presiding Judge of the frequently than every three years thereafter. <b>Superior Court</b> 700 Civic Center Drive West The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not Santa Ana, CA 92701 reasonable, with an explanation therefor. The City does not permit STRs. Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to
R2
create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently...
F2
The steady growth of STR usage in the last decade raises concerns of potential public nuisance.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
nuisance. The respondent agrees with the finding. Even with robust Code Enforcement, a city's statutory ban on STRs is not enough to keep
R2
Cities should consider developing a plan for upcoming major events that are expected to create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every two years thereafter. (F11)
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
create a surge in demand for STRs and its associated Transient Occupancy Tax, by December 31, 2025, and no less frequently than every two years thereafter. The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation therefor The City does not permit STRs. City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management
R9
strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. The recommendation will be implemented. City staff will continue to attend and participate in those professional associations an...
F3
Even with robust Code Enforcement, a city’s statutory ban on STRs is not enough to keep STRs from operating.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
STRs from operating. The respondent agrees with the finding. Despite the City's ban on STRs, Code Enforcement regularly receives complaints regarding STRs. The frequency of the complaints rose to such a level in prior years that the City recently procured access to a data platform that monitors STRs and supports timely, appropriate enforcement. City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting
R9
City leaders should have regular discussions with each other to share STR management strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. (F12) RESPONSES The following excerpts from the California Penal Code provide the requirements for public agencies to respond to the Findings and Recommendations of this Grand Jury report: Penal Code Section 933: (c) No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public agency subject to its revie...
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
strategies on a biannual basis commencing no later than January 1, 2026. The recommendation will be implemented. City staff will continue to attend and participate in those professional associations and events where issues such as STRs are addressed. Should you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Hannah Shin- Heydorn, City Manager, at (714) 890-4277 or via email at <a href="https://example.com/HShinheydorn@StantonCA.gov">HShinheydorn@StantonCA.gov</a>. Respectfully, Newyl Slawus David J. Shawyer Mayor Cc:
F12
City leaders have no regular communication with each other concerning STR issues, limiting opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
opportunities to develop strategies and expertise to improve service. The respondent agrees partially with the finding. While there is no formal regular communication medium dedicated solely to STR-related issues among City leaders in Orange County, communication and collaboration does occur. In addition to mediums for elected officials such as the League of California Cities and the Association of California Cities - Orange County, city managers and planning directors participate in various professional organizations in which a range of municipal issues are discussed, including STRs. Communit...
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City of Villa Park 07/22/25
July 22, 2025
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2 pages
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City of Mission Viejo 08/18/25
August 18, 2025
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4 pages
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City of Costa Mesa 08/05/25
August 05, 2025
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3 pages
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City of Newport Beach 07/23/25
July 23, 2025
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7 pages
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City of Buena Park 07/22/25
July 22, 2025
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5 pages
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City of Lake Forest 07/17/25
July 17, 2025
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6 pages
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City of Laguna Woods 07/16/25
July 16, 2025
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Orange County
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