Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Huntsville, AL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are defined as stays under six months (179 days or less) and are treated as motels under the City’s zoning; they are generally not permitted in most residential zoning districts and are allowed as a primary use only in specified commercial/industrial zoning districts (Residence 2-B, C-3, C-4, C-5, Light Industry, Heavy Industry, Airport Industrial Park, Research Park Commercial) and by special exception in certain other business/research park districts. Lodging tax (9% plus $2/night surcharge) applies.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Contact Zoning Administration (256-564-8008) to verify the property’s zoning and whether STR use is permitted or requires a special exception. 2) Apply for a Business License with the City of Huntsville Finance Office via the online portal; review may take up to 10 business days. 3) Collect and remit lodging tax (9% plus $2/night) via the State of Alabama OneSpot portal.

Official Resources

Official Huntsville STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Huntsville, AL?
Short-term rentals are defined as stays under six months (179 days or less) and are treated as motels under the City’s zoning; they are generally not permitted in most residential zoning districts and are allowed as a primary use only in specified commercial/industrial zoning districts (Residence 2-B, C-3, C-4, C-5, Light Industry, Heavy Industry, Airport Industrial Park, Research Park Commercial) and by special exception in certain other business/research park districts. Lodging tax (9% plus $2/night surcharge) applies.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Huntsville?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Huntsville. 1) Contact Zoning Administration (256-564-8008) to verify the property’s zoning and whether STR use is permitted or requires a special exception. 2) Apply for a Business License with the City of Huntsville Finance Office via the online portal; review may take up to 10 business days. 3) Collect and remit lodging tax (9% plus $2/night) via the State of Alabama OneSpot portal.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Huntsville?
1) Contact Zoning Administration (256-564-8008) to verify the property’s zoning and whether STR use is permitted or requires a special exception. 2) Apply for a Business License with the City of Huntsville Finance Office via the online portal; review may take up to 10 business days. 3) Collect and remit lodging tax (9% plus $2/night) via the State of Alabama OneSpot portal.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Huntsville, AL?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction