Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lexington, KY

Airbnb listings are allowed in Lexington, KY, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are distinguished as Hosted (primary resident present) or Un-Hosted. Requirements include a $1,000,000 liability insurance policy, a local emergency contact within 25 miles, and compliance with maximum occupancy limits. Specific zones, particularly agricultural and rural areas, require conditional-use permits, septic system approval, and buffer spacing between units. 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 are distinguished as Hosted (primary resident present) or Un-Hosted. Requirements include a $1,000,000 liability insurance policy, a local emergency contact within 25 miles, and compliance with maximum occupancy limits. Specific zones, particularly agricultural and rural areas, require conditional-use permits, septic system approval, and buffer spacing between units.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lexington. 1) Obtain a Zoning Compliance Permit from the Division of Planning by completing a zoning verification form. 2) Apply for a Special Fees License via the online STR portal (str.lexingtonky.gov), uploading required documents including a business license, site/floor plans, proof of $1M insurance, and a sworn safety affidavit. 3) Pay the license fee ($200 for the first unit) and renew the license annually.

1) Obtain a Zoning Compliance Permit from the Division of Planning by completing a zoning verification form. 2) Apply for a Special Fees License via the online STR portal (str.lexingtonky.gov), uploading required documents including a business license, site/floor plans, proof of $1M insurance, and a sworn safety affidavit. 3) Pay the license fee ($200 for the first unit) and renew the license annually.

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