Short-term (Airbnb) rental regulation in Virginia Beach, VA

How does Virginia Beach define a short-term rental (STR)?

A short-term rental (STR) in Virginia Beach is an entire dwelling rented for less than 30 consecutive days for compensation. Properties located in the Sandbridge Special Service District are eligible for use as STRs with the required zoning permit, while properties granted a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) by the City Council before September 7, 2021, are considered grandfathered but must meet the conditions of their CUP. Home sharing, where rooms are rented while the homeowner occupies the home, does not require a zoning permit but must be registered (Virginia Beach STRA; City of Virginia Beach).

Can an investor own more than one vacation rental property in Virginia Beach?

The regulations do not specify a limit on the number of vacation rental properties an investor can own. However, each property must comply with the city’s zoning and permit requirements to operate legally as a short-term rental (Virginia Beach STRA).

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Does Virginia Beach have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, Virginia Beach has specific zoning restrictions for STRs. Only properties in the Sandbridge Special Service District and those with a City Council-granted STR Conditional Use Permit in the Oceanfront Resort STR Overlay District are eligible. Properties must meet all the conditions of their CUP and obtain yearly STR zoning permits (Virginia Beach STRA; City of Virginia Beach).

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

The regulations focus on compliance with zoning, safety, and operational standards rather than the ownership structure. As long as these criteria are met, including obtaining the necessary permits and inspections, an investor should be able to own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity (CGP Real Estate Consulting).

In Virginia Beach, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multi-family homes as Vacation Rentals?

The regulations provided do not explicitly address the eligibility of ADUs, duplexes, or multi-family homes as vacation rentals. The primary requirement is compliance with zoning permits, safety inspections, and other stipulated conditions. It’s advisable to consult with the city’s planning department for specific property types (City of Virginia Beach).

What is Virginia Beach’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To operate a STR, you need a zoning permit, a sworn statement form, life-safety and structural safety inspection reports, a parking plan, proof of liability insurance, and registration with the Commissioner of the Revenue. These requirements ensure compliance with safety, structural, and operational standards (City of Virginia Beach).

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Virginia Beach?

The zoning permit fee is $200. Additionally, a conditional use permit (CUP) application costs $360. These fees are part of the regulatory compliance costs for operating a vacation rental in Virginia Beach (City of Virginia Beach; CGP Real Estate Consulting).

Does Virginia Beach have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

Yes, the maximum occupancy is three individuals per bedroom on the property between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. This regulation is part of the city’s efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of guests and residents (CGP Real Estate Consulting).

Does Virginia Beach require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license?

Yes, both life-safety and structural safety inspections are required. The life-safety inspection report must be submitted annually, while the structural safety inspection report is required with the initial zoning permit request and every three years thereafter (City of Virginia Beach).

What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?

Virginia Beach requires a parking plan, life-safety and structural safety inspections, and compliance with specific parking, trash management, and event hosting regulations. Properties must also have liability insurance of at least $1 million (CGP Real Estate Consulting; City of Virginia Beach).

Does Virginia Beach have any responsible agent requirements? Does Virginia Beach have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

A responsible party must be available to address concerns within 30 minutes, and properties must have a $1 million liability insurance policy. These requirements are part of ensuring a safe and responsive vacation rental experience (CGP Real Estate Consulting).

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Virginia Beach Vacation Rental license?

Conditional use permits expire five years from the date of adoption and must be renewed, ensuring compliance with all regulations and codes. STR zoning permits must be renewed annually (City of Virginia Beach; CGP Real Estate Consulting).

In Virginia Beach, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf?

The provided resources do not specify whether Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on behalf of hosts. Hosts must ensure that all applicable taxes are paid and comply with registration requirements with the Commissioner of the Revenue (Virginia Beach STRA).

Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Virginia Beach?

Hosts are responsible for ensuring that their properties comply with all tax obligations, including transient occupancy taxes. It’s advisable to consult directly with the Commissioner of the Revenue for specific tax responsibilities (Virginia Beach STRA).

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Virginia Beach Vacation Rentals?

For questions regarding vacation rentals in Virginia Beach, contact the city’s Planning Department or the Commissioner of the Revenue. These offices can provide guidance on permits, taxes, and compliance with local regulations (Virginia Beach STRA).

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

Virginia Beach regularly updates its short-term rental ordinances to address safety, zoning, and operational concerns. Investors shouldFor further details, check out these search results.

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