Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Dothan, AL

Airbnb listings are allowed in Dothan, AL, but with restrictions. STRs are divided into owner-occupied (STRR) and non-owner-occupied (STCR). STRRs are permitted by right in most residential zones, while STCRs often require a Special Exception and must not be within 250 feet of another STCR. Occupancy is limited to 2 guests per bedroom (excluding children under 12), and a quiet time is mandated from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM. 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 divided into owner-occupied (STRR) and non-owner-occupied (STCR). STRRs are permitted by right in most residential zones, while STCRs often require a Special Exception and must not be within 250 feet of another STCR. Occupancy is limited to 2 guests per bedroom (excluding children under 12), and a quiet time is mandated from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Dothan. 1) Register the STR via the official City registration form (uploading proof of operation if pre-existing). 2) Apply for a City business license through the online licensing portal. 3) Ensure compliance with zoning approvals (Special Exception for STCRs in most residential zones) and performance standards.

1) Register the STR via the official City registration form (uploading proof of operation if pre-existing). 2) Apply for a City business license through the online licensing portal. 3) Ensure compliance with zoning approvals (Special Exception for STCRs in most residential zones) and performance standards.

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