Malibu Sales Tax Goes Up To 10 Percent On April 1

MALIBU, CA — Sales tax in the city will increase from 9.5 percent to 10 percent on April 1.

The hike was approved by Malibu voters through Measure MC at the November 2022 election. It applies to goods, some services and tangible personal property bought in the city. In some cases it will apply to purchases by city residents made outside of the Malibu, such as cars, according to the city.

Basic necessities such as groceries and prescriptions are not subject to the increased tax.

Approved by 52.53 percent of Malibu voters, Measure MC funds — estimated at $3 million annually — are earmarked for "public safety, crime and fire prevention, addressing homelessness, keeping public areas safe and clean, preventing speeding and reckless driving, protecting coastal waters and beaches from pollution, preserving natural areas, supporting local businesses, and other general city services," according to the ballot question.

The city estimates that 73 percent of the increased revenue will come from tourists and visitors.