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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Ouray, CO

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only in the City of Ouray R-2, C-1, and C-2 zone districts; STRs are prohibited in the R-1 zone (except certain grandfathered units) and in accessory dwelling units. The City imposes a cap of 120 STR licenses, an occupancy limit of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons, requires a local responsible party within a 45-minute drive, and requires units to be rented at least 30 days annually.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit a completed STR license application packet to the City (applications are waitlisted if the 120-license cap is met). 2) Pass a site inspection by the City Building Inspector to ensure the unit meets building codes. 3) Pay the required fees ($825 for new licenses; $400 for renewals) and renew annually by February 28.

Official Resources

Official Ouray STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Ouray, CO?
STRs are permitted only in the City of Ouray R-2, C-1, and C-2 zone districts; STRs are prohibited in the R-1 zone (except certain grandfathered units) and in accessory dwelling units. The City imposes a cap of 120 STR licenses, an occupancy limit of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons, requires a local responsible party within a 45-minute drive, and requires units to be rented at least 30 days annually.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Ouray?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Ouray. 1) Submit a completed STR license application packet to the City (applications are waitlisted if the 120-license cap is met). 2) Pass a site inspection by the City Building Inspector to ensure the unit meets building codes. 3) Pay the required fees ($825 for new licenses; $400 for renewals) and renew annually by February 28.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Ouray?
1) Submit a completed STR license application packet to the City (applications are waitlisted if the 120-license cap is met). 2) Pass a site inspection by the City Building Inspector to ensure the unit meets building codes. 3) Pay the required fees ($825 for new licenses; $400 for renewals) and renew annually by February 28.
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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