Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Sitka City and Borough County, AK

Airbnb listings are allowed in Sitka City and Borough County, AK, but with restrictions. STRs in residential zones require a conditional use permit and must be the owner's primary residence (occupied at least 180 days per year). Requirements include providing two off-street parking spaces per dwelling unit and remitting a 6% bed tax in addition to standard sales tax. 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 in residential zones require a conditional use permit and must be the owner's primary residence (occupied at least 180 days per year). Requirements include providing two off-street parking spaces per dwelling unit and remitting a 6% bed tax in addition to standard sales tax.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Sitka City and Borough County. 1. Submit a general application, supplemental STR application, floor/site/parking plans, and a notarized primary residence affidavit to the Planning Office at least three weeks before a Planning Commission meeting. 2. Pay a $100 non-refundable filing fee and undergo a fire and life safety inspection by the Building Department. 3. Register with the Sales Tax Office and obtain approval from the Planning Commission following a public hearing.

1. Submit a general application, supplemental STR application, floor/site/parking plans, and a notarized primary residence affidavit to the Planning Office at least three weeks before a Planning Commission meeting. 2. Pay a $100 non-refundable filing fee and undergo a fire and life safety inspection by the Building Department. 3. Register with the Sales Tax Office and obtain approval from the Planning Commission following a public hearing.

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