Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Dover, DE

Airbnb listings are allowed in Dover, DE, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are restricted to one-family dwellings that serve as the owner's primary residence; the owner must be a resident of the City of Dover. Occupancy is limited to twice the number of bedrooms (max 12 guests), parking is limited to one extra vehicle per bedroom (max 6), and special events like weddings are prohibited without a separate permit. 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.

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are restricted to one-family dwellings that serve as the owner's primary residence; the owner must be a resident of the City of Dover. Occupancy is limited to twice the number of bedrooms (max 12 guests), parking is limited to one extra vehicle per bedroom (max 6), and special events like weddings are prohibited without a separate permit.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Dover. 1. Apply for an annual Short Term Rental Use License through the Permit and Licensing Office. 2. Schedule and pass a life safety and property maintenance inspection by the city code enforcement office. 3. Pay the required license fee (per Appendix F) and renew the license annually by January 31.

1. Apply for an annual Short Term Rental Use License through the Permit and Licensing Office. 2. Schedule and pass a life safety and property maintenance inspection by the city code enforcement office. 3. Pay the required license fee (per Appendix F) and renew the license annually by January 31.

Vrbo is permitted in Dover, DE 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Dover 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Dover. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.