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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Putnam County, NY

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are restricted to single-family dwellings in R-1, R-2, R-3, LP, and CD zones as a special use; they must be the owner's primary residence (180+ days/year) or the owner must be present. Operations require a local manager within 30 miles, adherence to occupancy limits, and are subject to a total permit cap set by the Town Board.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a special use permit from the Planning Board. 2. Submit an STR permit application to the Building Department with a $500 fee, hosting platform info, and proof of residency. 3. Pass an initial and annual fire safety inspection ($100 fee). Permits are valid for three years.

Official Resources

Official Putnam County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Putnam County, NY?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Putnam County, NY, but with restrictions. STRs are restricted to single-family dwellings in R-1, R-2, R-3, LP, and CD zones as a special use; they must be the owner's primary residence (180+ days/year) or the owner must be present. Operations require a local manager within 30 miles, adherence to occupancy limits, and are subject to a total permit cap set by the Town Board. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Putnam County, NY?
STRs are restricted to single-family dwellings in R-1, R-2, R-3, LP, and CD zones as a special use; they must be the owner's primary residence (180+ days/year) or the owner must be present. Operations require a local manager within 30 miles, adherence to occupancy limits, and are subject to a total permit cap set by the Town Board.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Putnam County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Putnam County. 1. Obtain a special use permit from the Planning Board. 2. Submit an STR permit application to the Building Department with a $500 fee, hosting platform info, and proof of residency. 3. Pass an initial and annual fire safety inspection ($100 fee). Permits are valid for three years.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Putnam County?
1. Obtain a special use permit from the Planning Board. 2. Submit an STR permit application to the Building Department with a $500 fee, hosting platform info, and proof of residency. 3. Pass an initial and annual fire safety inspection ($100 fee). Permits are valid for three years.
Is Vrbo legal in Putnam County, NY?
Vrbo is permitted in Putnam 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Putnam County?
Short-term rental hosts in Putnam 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Putnam County?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Putnam County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction