Airbnb Rental Laws and Regulations Vail, CO

How does Vail, CO define a short-term rental (STR)?

• Any residential dwelling unit explicitly designed for the purpose of accommodating a single family or individual.
• A Transient Public Lodging establishment that is leased to guests for a rental duration not exceeding 30 days.

Please be aware that in this context, the terms “vacation rental” and “short-term (Airbnb) rental” are interchangeable.

Source: Town of Vail

Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Vail, CO? 

Yes. In Vail, Colorado, there are no restrictions on investors owning and managing multiple Vacation Rental properties. However, it is crucial to note that each Vacation Rental property in Vail must hold an individual and separate Vacation Rental License. 

Source: Town of Vail

Does Vail, CO have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

In Vail, Colorado, there are currently no zoning restrictions in place for short-term rentals (STRs). This leniency provides property owners and investors with the freedom to use their properties for STR purposes without specific zoning limitations. However, it’s important to stay informed about any potential changes in local regulations and ensure compliance with other applicable rules, such as licensing and safety standards, to operate STRs effectively within Vail’s jurisdiction.

Source: Vail STR Ordinance

In Vail, CO can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity? 

Yes, in Vail, Colorado, investors can own and operate their Airbnb or short-term rental (STR) properties as a business entity. Vail generally allows property owners and investors the flexibility to run their STRs as a business, whether through individual ownership or as part of a business entity, as long as they comply with the town’s licensing and regulatory requirements for Airbnb rentals. 

Source: Vail STR Ordinance

In Vail, CO, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals?

Yes, investors in Vail, CO can register accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals. However, it’s important to note that certain requirements may apply, such as providing proof of USPS mailing to the owner of the adjoining residential unit in your duplex, if it is a requirement specified by local regulations. 

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

What is the Vail, CO requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Vail, CO, there are specific steps to follow. If you intend to rent your property for periods of less than 30 consecutive days, which qualifies as a short-term (airbnb) rental (STR) in Vail, you must:

• Review the STR changes and ordinance for the latest regulations.
• Collect the necessary documents based on whether you are an Individual Property Owner or a Professional Property Manager.
• Ensure your property is prepared for a fire inspection if applicable, using the STR Safety Inspection Checklist. You will schedule the inspection during the online application process.
• Once steps 1 to 3 are completed, follow the provided instructions on how to apply for your short-term (airbnb) rental license.

For Professional Property Managers, there are specific instructions to follow, and you can access the licensing portal directly for the application process.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Vail, CO?

The costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Vail, CO vary based on whether you are an individual property owner or a professional property manager:

For Individual Property Owners:

• The license fee is $260.00.
• Payment can be made using Bank Account Information or Credit Card.

For Professional Property Managers:

• The license fee is $260.00 for offsite management.
• If you provide 24/7 onsite management, the license fee is $50.00.
• Payment can be made using Bank Account Information or Credit Card.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

Does Vail, CO have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

No, Vail, CO does not impose vacation rental occupancy limits. Property owners and managers in Vail have the flexibility to determine occupancy based on the property’s size, type, and other relevant factors, without specific municipal restrictions on the maximum number of guests allowed. It’s important to consider safety and guest comfort when setting occupancy levels, but there are no fixed limits mandated by Vail’s regulations for vacation rentals.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

Does Vail, CO require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?

Yes. All new registrations for Short-Term (Airbnb) Rentals (STRs) are required to undergo inspections before obtaining a license. These inspections must be scheduled at least 60 days in advance of the planned start date for short-term renting. Additionally, existing STRs are subject to inspection within the first three years of the ordinance’s effective date and subsequently every three years from their last inspection. Properties with 24/7 on-site management services are exempt from this inspection requirement. Inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards for vacation rental properties in Vail.

Source: Vail STR Ordinance Updates

Does Vail, CO have any responsible agent requirements?

Yes. Each Short-Term (Airbnb) Rental (STR) property is required to designate a responsible agent who acts as the local representative for the property. This individual must reside within an hour’s travel time of the STR, possess a text-enabled phone, and be available around the clock (24/7) to address tenant concerns and emergencies. The responsible agent’s physical address must match that of the registered STR property. Compliance with these requirements is crucial for the proper operation of the STR and the approval of its registration.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

Does Vail, CO have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

Yes, Vail, CO does have specific insurance requirements for Vacation Rentals. Property owners or managers are required to maintain an insurance policy with a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability coverage. The policy must explicitly state that it covers Airbnb rental activity. Alternatively, if you are using an approved online marketplace facilitator’s insurance, you can complete an affidavit in lieu of uploading the insurance policy. As of the last available information, Airbnb, VRBO, and Evolve are accepted online marketplace facilitators with approved insurance coverage for Vacation Rentals in Vail.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Vail, COVacation Rental license?

The duration of a Vacation Rental license in Vail, CO typically expires on February 28th of each year. License holders are generally required to renew their license annually before this expiration date to ensure their continued eligibility to operate a Vacation Rental property. Renewal terms and requirements may vary, so it’s advisable to verify the current regulations with the Vail Town Government or relevant local authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding Vacation Rental licenses in Vail, Colorado.

Souce: Short-Term Rentals In Vail

In Vail, CO, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Vail, CO?

In Vail, Colorado, both Airbnb and VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) typically remit certain taxes on the host’s behalf. These taxes may include local lodging taxes, sales taxes, and other applicable fees. However, it’s essential for hosts to be aware that tax regulations can change, and the responsibility for collecting and remitting taxes can vary depending on the specific circumstances and agreements between the platform and local authorities.

Source: Airbnb Vail

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Vail, CO  Vacation Rentals?

Town of Vail, CO: shorttermrentals@vailgov.com or 970-477-3515

Are there any new laws and regulations that the city is requiring?

The most recent regulatory changes in Vail, CO related to short-term (Airbnb) rentals occurred on January 1st, 2023.

Source: Vail STR Ordinance Updates