Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Fenwick Island, DE

Airbnb listings are allowed in Fenwick Island, DE, but with restrictions. Maximum overnight occupancy for any dwelling, townhouse, or apartment is strictly limited to 12 persons. Operators must pay an 8% tax on gross rental receipts to the Town on a quarterly basis. A $100 late fee applies if a property is rented before the annual license is obtained. 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.

Maximum overnight occupancy for any dwelling, townhouse, or apartment is strictly limited to 12 persons. Operators must pay an 8% tax on gross rental receipts to the Town on a quarterly basis. A $100 late fee applies if a property is rented before the annual license is obtained.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Fenwick Island. 1. Complete the Town of Fenwick Island Short Term Rental License Form. 2. Pay the $185.00 annual license fee (calendar year). 3. Ensure all town taxes and assessments are paid, including the 8% quarterly tax on gross rental receipts. Licenses must be renewed annually.

1. Complete the Town of Fenwick Island Short Term Rental License Form. 2. Pay the $185.00 annual license fee (calendar year). 3. Ensure all town taxes and assessments are paid, including the 8% quarterly tax on gross rental receipts. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Vrbo is permitted in Fenwick Island, 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 Fenwick Island 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 Fenwick Island. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.