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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Golden, CO

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs in residential zones must be owner-occupied for at least 10 months per year. Occupancy is limited to four adults and their dependents, and the STR license number must be included in all advertisements. Only one dwelling unit per lot is eligible for a license.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a Sales and Use Tax License from the Finance Department. 2. Submit an STR License application via the OpenGov online portal with required documents (warranty deed, proof of residency, insurance, and safety certification). 3. Pay the $200 fee for a two-year license.

Regulatory Updates — Golden

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedMay 2022

City of Golden STR License Program

City requires annual STR operating license with fire safety inspection, noise compliance, and city business license. License number must appear in all listings.

PassedJuly 2023

Jefferson County Lodging Tax Registration

County expanded lodging tax to cover all STRs; operators must register with Jefferson County and remit monthly. Non-compliance subject to county audit.

Under ReviewJuly 2025

Golden STR Density Monitoring Study

City planning staff tracking STR density in residential neighborhoods to identify potential concentration hotspots; no restriction proposals introduced.

Official Resources

Official Golden STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Golden Chamber of CommerceLocal

Local chamber supporting tourism and vacation rental operators as contributors to Golden's thriving visitor economy near Denver.

Colorado Short-Term Rental AllianceStatewide

Statewide advocacy organization representing Colorado STR operators; monitors legislation across all 64 counties and provides compliance resources.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Golden, CO?
STRs in residential zones must be owner-occupied for at least 10 months per year. Occupancy is limited to four adults and their dependents, and the STR license number must be included in all advertisements. Only one dwelling unit per lot is eligible for a license.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Golden?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Golden. 1. Obtain a Sales and Use Tax License from the Finance Department. 2. Submit an STR License application via the OpenGov online portal with required documents (warranty deed, proof of residency, insurance, and safety certification). 3. Pay the $200 fee for a two-year license.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Golden?
1. Obtain a Sales and Use Tax License from the Finance Department. 2. Submit an STR License application via the OpenGov online portal with required documents (warranty deed, proof of residency, insurance, and safety certification). 3. Pay the $200 fee for a two-year license.
What does Golden require for STR operation?
An annual City of Golden STR operating license with fire safety inspection and noise compliance. A Jefferson County business license and county lodging tax registration are also required. License number must appear in all platform listings.
Are there STR caps in Golden?
Not currently. City planning is monitoring STR density but has not introduced any cap proposals. Golden's regulatory environment has been stable and is among the more permissive in the Denver metro area.
What lodging taxes apply in Golden?
Jefferson County lodging tax applies to all STRs; operators must register and remit monthly. Colorado state sales tax also applies. Golden does not currently impose a separate city lodging tax on top of state and county obligations.
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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