Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Rio Arriba County, NM

Airbnb listings are allowed in Rio Arriba County, NM, but with restrictions. Rio Arriba County requires operators to register as lodgers and pay a 5% occupancy tax on gross taxable rent. Additionally, the Planning & Zoning department requires development permits for any construction or changes in land use associated with the rental property. 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.

Rio Arriba County requires operators to register as lodgers and pay a 5% occupancy tax on gross taxable rent. Additionally, the Planning & Zoning department requires development permits for any construction or changes in land use associated with the rental property.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Rio Arriba County. 1) Complete the Lodgers Business Registration application available from the Planning & Zoning department. 2) Submit the application to the County Manager’s Office or via email to sheila.vigil@rio-arriba.org. 3) Register for and remit the 5% lodgers' tax and obtain any necessary development permits if the rental involves a change in land use.

1) Complete the Lodgers Business Registration application available from the Planning & Zoning department. 2) Submit the application to the County Manager’s Office or via email to sheila.vigil@rio-arriba.org. 3) Register for and remit the 5% lodgers' tax and obtain any necessary development permits if the rental involves a change in land use.

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