Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Auburn, AL

Airbnb listings are allowed in Auburn, AL, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are categorized as either a 'homestay' (primary residence) or a 'short-term non-primary rental' (not a permanent residence). Homestays require a Home Occupation Permit, while non-primary rentals require a Zoning Certificate; both are subject to specific zoning district allowances as shown on the city's interactive map. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rentals are categorized as either a 'homestay' (primary residence) or a 'short-term non-primary rental' (not a permanent residence). Homestays require a Home Occupation Permit, while non-primary rentals require a Zoning Certificate; both are subject to specific zoning district allowances as shown on the city's interactive map.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Auburn. 1. Submit a Home Occupation application (for homestays) or a Zoning Certificate application (for non-primary rentals) along with a deed or notarized letter to webplanning@auburnalabama.org. 2. Once the permit/certificate is received, submit a Short-Term Business License Application to the Revenue Office (revenue@auburnal.gov) and pay the first-year license fee ($105 if starting Jan-Jun; $55 if starting after July 1).

1. Submit a Home Occupation application (for homestays) or a Zoning Certificate application (for non-primary rentals) along with a deed or notarized letter to webplanning@auburnalabama.org. 2. Once the permit/certificate is received, submit a Short-Term Business License Application to the Revenue Office (revenue@auburnal.gov) and pay the first-year license fee ($105 if starting Jan-Jun; $55 if starting after July 1).

Vrbo is permitted in Auburn, AL under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Auburn are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Auburn. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.