Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Niagara County, NY

Airbnb listings are allowed in Niagara County, NY, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are regulated at the municipal level rather than by a single countywide ordinance. Key constraints vary by municipality; for instance, Niagara Falls limits STRs to specific geographic zones and sets occupancy at two persons per bedroom, while Lockport requires a special use permit and annual renewals. 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 regulated at the municipal level rather than by a single countywide ordinance. Key constraints vary by municipality; for instance, Niagara Falls limits STRs to specific geographic zones and sets occupancy at two persons per bedroom, while Lockport requires a special use permit and annual renewals.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Niagara County. 1. Obtain a Special Permit from the local Zoning Board of Appeals. 2. Apply for a Short-Term Rental operator license through the Department of Code Enforcement. 3. Pay applicable fees (e.g., $250-$400) and renew the license annually.

1. Obtain a Special Permit from the local Zoning Board of Appeals. 2. Apply for a Short-Term Rental operator license through the Department of Code Enforcement. 3. Pay applicable fees (e.g., $250-$400) and renew the license annually.

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