Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Decatur, AL

Airbnb listings are allowed in Decatur, AL, but with restrictions. STRs are restricted by density (max 3 units within a 1,000-foot radius) and an annual city-wide cap of 150 approvals in residential zones. Operators must appoint a local agent within 50 miles available 24/7 and ensure no more than two contiguous properties hold STR certificates. Units must be rented at least 5 nights per year to remain eligible for renewal. 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.

STRs are restricted by density (max 3 units within a 1,000-foot radius) and an annual city-wide cap of 150 approvals in residential zones. Operators must appoint a local agent within 50 miles available 24/7 and ensure no more than two contiguous properties hold STR certificates. Units must be rented at least 5 nights per year to remain eligible for renewal.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Decatur. 1. Submit an annual application to the Planning Department with a $250 deposit. 2. Pass safety inspections conducted by the City Building Inspector and Fire Marshal. 3. Pay the $250 balance upon approval and obtain a business privilege license from the Revenue Department.

1. Submit an annual application to the Planning Department with a $250 deposit. 2. Pass safety inspections conducted by the City Building Inspector and Fire Marshal. 3. Pay the $250 balance upon approval and obtain a business privilege license from the Revenue Department.

Vrbo is permitted in Decatur, 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 Decatur 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 Decatur. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.