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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Thornton, CO

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are allowed only in owner-occupied primary residences where the licensee inhabits the property at least 50% of the year. Eligible properties are limited to single-family attached/detached dwellings and approved accessory dwelling units, specifically excluding manufactured homes and apartments. Operators must collect a 7% lodging tax and include their license number in all advertisements.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply online via the Thornton MUNIRevs licensing portal. 2) Submit proof of property ownership and primary residence status (must inhabit >50% of year). 3) Pay the $180 annual fee and obtain the license, which must be renewed annually.

Official Resources

Official Thornton STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Thornton, CO?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Thornton, CO, but with restrictions. STRs are allowed only in owner-occupied primary residences where the licensee inhabits the property at least 50% of the year. Eligible properties are limited to single-family attached/detached dwellings and approved accessory dwelling units, specifically excluding manufactured homes and apartments. Operators must collect a 7% lodging tax and include their license number in all advertisements. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Thornton, CO?
STRs are allowed only in owner-occupied primary residences where the licensee inhabits the property at least 50% of the year. Eligible properties are limited to single-family attached/detached dwellings and approved accessory dwelling units, specifically excluding manufactured homes and apartments. Operators must collect a 7% lodging tax and include their license number in all advertisements.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Thornton?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Thornton. 1) Apply online via the Thornton MUNIRevs licensing portal. 2) Submit proof of property ownership and primary residence status (must inhabit >50% of year). 3) Pay the $180 annual fee and obtain the license, which must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Thornton?
1) Apply online via the Thornton MUNIRevs licensing portal. 2) Submit proof of property ownership and primary residence status (must inhabit >50% of year). 3) Pay the $180 annual fee and obtain the license, which must be renewed annually.
Is Vrbo legal in Thornton, CO?
Vrbo is permitted in Thornton, CO 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Thornton?
Short-term rental hosts in Thornton 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Thornton?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Thornton. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction