San Diego officials have taken their first big step toward implementing a tax on vacation rentals and second homes.

A city council committee advanced a proposal — in spite of fierce opposition from the Chamber of Commerce and other groups — that would put a measure on the June 2026 ballot, if it eventually receives approval from the full council.

The tax, proposed by District 9 Councilmember Sean-Elo Rivera, would charge vacant second homes and full-time vacation rentals $5,000 per room annually. Elo-Rivera’s office estimates the tax, which would apply to about 2% of homes in the city, could generate $100 million to $135 million each year to help close a persistent city budget deficit.

Councilmember Raul Campillo, the only member of the council’s Rules Committee who voted against the pr

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