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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Bethany Beach, DE

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

A separate license is required for every unit rented. Owners must complete a mandatory Safety Certification before a license is issued and pay a 7% Town Real Estate Rental Tax on gross receipts semi-annually. Additionally, a 4.5% state lodging tax applies as of January 1, 2025.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a Rental License Application and a completed Safety Certification form for each unit. 2. Pay the $100 annual fee per unit by June 1. 3. Renew the license annually (June 1 – May 31) and pay the 7% gross rental tax semi-annually (November 1 and June 1).

Official Resources

Official Bethany Beach STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bethany Beach, DE?
A separate license is required for every unit rented. Owners must complete a mandatory Safety Certification before a license is issued and pay a 7% Town Real Estate Rental Tax on gross receipts semi-annually. Additionally, a 4.5% state lodging tax applies as of January 1, 2025.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Bethany Beach?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Bethany Beach. 1. Submit a Rental License Application and a completed Safety Certification form for each unit. 2. Pay the $100 annual fee per unit by June 1. 3. Renew the license annually (June 1 – May 31) and pay the 7% gross rental tax semi-annually (November 1 and June 1).
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Bethany Beach?
1. Submit a Rental License Application and a completed Safety Certification form for each unit. 2. Pay the $100 annual fee per unit by June 1. 3. Renew the license annually (June 1 – May 31) and pay the 7% gross rental tax semi-annually (November 1 and June 1).
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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