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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Bayfield, CO

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Vacation rentals are permitted by Town of Bayfield Land Use Code Sec. 4-10 but are limited by a town-wide cap and spacing: permits are allowed only while total vacation rentals do not exceed 15 within town limits and each rental must be at least 500 feet from other vacation rentals. Permits require compliance with zone standards, building code compliance and safety/health inspections; advertisement must display the vacation rental permit number; a local owner or representative residing in La Plata County (or within 60 miles) must be designated and available 24/7.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit an initial vacation rental permit application to the Land Use Administrator including a Town land use application, business license, owner/local representative contact info, narrative, site plan, and fees. 2) Ensure building code compliance and pass required safety/health inspections. 3) Permits are issued for the calendar year and must be renewed annually.

Official Resources

Official Bayfield STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bayfield, CO?
Vacation rentals are permitted by Town of Bayfield Land Use Code Sec. 4-10 but are limited by a town-wide cap and spacing: permits are allowed only while total vacation rentals do not exceed 15 within town limits and each rental must be at least 500 feet from other vacation rentals. Permits require compliance with zone standards, building code compliance and safety/health inspections; advertisement must display the vacation rental permit number; a local owner or representative residing in La Plata County (or within 60 miles) must be designated and available 24/7.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Bayfield?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Bayfield. 1) Submit an initial vacation rental permit application to the Land Use Administrator including a Town land use application, business license, owner/local representative contact info, narrative, site plan, and fees. 2) Ensure building code compliance and pass required safety/health inspections. 3) Permits are issued for the calendar year and must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Bayfield?
1) Submit an initial vacation rental permit application to the Land Use Administrator including a Town land use application, business license, owner/local representative contact info, narrative, site plan, and fees. 2) Ensure building code compliance and pass required safety/health inspections. 3) Permits are issued for the calendar year and must be renewed annually.
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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