Navigating Short-Term Rental Regulations: A State-by-State Guide.
Ah, short-term rentals. They're the perfect way to make some extra cash and meet interesting people from all over the world. But, as with anything, there are rules and regulations to follow. And when it comes to short-term rentals, those rules can get pretty darn complicated.
Let's take a quick tour of the 50 states and see what kind of regulations you might be facing as an STR entrepreneur.
In Alabama, short-term rentals are legal, but some cities require permits. In Alaska, there are no statewide regulations, but some cities require permits. Arizona is also a mixed bag, with some cities allowing short-term rentals and others banning them outright.
Arkansas has a statewide law that regulates short-term rentals, but local governments can add additional regulations. In California, regulations vary by city and county, so it's important to do your research before diving in.
Colorado allows short-term rentals, but some cities require permits and others have restrictions on the number of people who can stay in the rental. Connecticut has a statewide law that allows short-term rentals, but some cities require permits or have zoning restrictions.
In Delaware, short-term rentals are legal, but some cities have additional regulations. Florida has a similar situation, with statewide regulations but additional rules in some cities.
Georgia allows short-term rentals, but some cities require permits or have zoning restrictions. Hawaii has a statewide law that allows short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
Idaho, Illinois, and Indiana all have statewide laws that regulate short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations. Iowa allows short-term rentals, but some cities require permits.
Kansas, Kentucky, and Louisiana have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place. Maine and Maryland allow short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
Massachusetts, Michigan, and Minnesota have statewide laws regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional rules. Mississippi and Missouri have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place.
Montana and Nebraska have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place. Nevada has statewide regulations, but some cities have additional rules.
New Hampshire and New Jersey allow short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations. New Mexico has no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place.
New York, oh New York. The regulations on short-term rentals in the Empire State are notoriously complicated and vary by city and county. It's a good idea to consult with a lawyer before diving into the world of Airbnb arbitrage in New York.
North Carolina and North Dakota have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place. Ohio and Oklahoma have statewide laws regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
Oregon has a statewide law regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional rules. Pennsylvania and Rhode Island allow short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
South Carolina and South Dakota have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place. Tennessee has a statewide law regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
Texas allows short-term rentals, but some cities have additional rules. Utah and Vermont have statewide laws regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations.
Virginia and Washington have statewide laws regulating short-term rentals, but some cities have additional regulations. West Virginia has no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place.
Wisconsin and Wyoming have no statewide regulations, but some cities have rules in place.
Phew, that was a mouthful! The bottom line is, if you're thinking about getting into the world of STR, it's important to do your research and make sure you're following all local regulations. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to consult with a lawyer who is familiar with short-term rental regulations in your area.
It can be tempting to try and cut corners and ignore local regulations, but that's a recipe for disaster. Not only can you face fines and legal action, but you could also end up with angry neighbors who don't appreciate the constant flow of strangers coming in and out of your property.
So, take the time to do your homework and make sure you're playing by the rules. And remember, just because a state or city allows short-term rentals doesn't mean it's a free-for-all. There may still be rules and regulations in place that you need to follow. At the end of the day, STR can be a lucrative if you're willing to put in the work and follow the rules. So, take a deep breath, dive into the regulations in your area, and get ready to welcome guests from all over the world to your beautiful, compliant short-term rental.
Never forget that we’re always here to help you take care of everything from listing your property to managing guest while they’re staying in your wonderful space. Contact us today!