Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Columbia, MO

Airbnb listings are allowed in Columbia, MO, but with restrictions. STRs are categorized into three tiers with annual night caps: Tier 1 (30 nights), Tier 2 (120-210 nights), and Tier 3 (365 nights in specific commercial zones). Maximum occupancy is eight guests, and a designated agent in Boone County must be available 24/7. A 5% nightly accommodation tax is required starting June 1, 2025. 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.

STRs are categorized into three tiers with annual night caps: Tier 1 (30 nights), Tier 2 (120-210 nights), and Tier 3 (365 nights in specific commercial zones). Maximum occupancy is eight guests, and a designated agent in Boone County must be available 24/7. A 5% nightly accommodation tax is required starting June 1, 2025.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Columbia. 1. Submit the STR Application to Planning@CoMo.gov for zoning verification. 2. If required by your tier/zone, apply for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). 3. Obtain an STR Certificate of Compliance via a rental unit inspection by Housing & Neighborhood Services, then apply for a Business License from the Finance Department.

1. Submit the STR Application to Planning@CoMo.gov for zoning verification. 2. If required by your tier/zone, apply for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). 3. Obtain an STR Certificate of Compliance via a rental unit inspection by Housing & Neighborhood Services, then apply for a Business License from the Finance Department.

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