Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Shelter Island Heights, NY

Airbnb listings are allowed in Shelter Island Heights, NY, but with restrictions. Vacation rentals (14 days or less) are generally prohibited in Residential (A, AA & C) zones unless the owner is a primary resident, holds a Homesteader's Hardship License, or a Limited Commercial Vacation Rental License. Occupancy is limited to twice the legal bedroom count, and advertising must include the registration number and minimum rental term. 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.

Vacation rentals (14 days or less) are generally prohibited in Residential (A, AA & C) zones unless the owner is a primary resident, holds a Homesteader's Hardship License, or a Limited Commercial Vacation Rental License. Occupancy is limited to twice the legal bedroom count, and advertising must include the registration number and minimum rental term.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Shelter Island Heights. 1. Register the property with the Department of Code Enforcement using the Rental Registry form (valid for two years). 2. For rentals of 14 days or less, apply for a Commercial Vacation Rental License ($150 fee) or Homesteader Hardship License. 3. Provide a safety certification from a licensed professional or schedule a Building Department inspection.

1. Register the property with the Department of Code Enforcement using the Rental Registry form (valid for two years). 2. For rentals of 14 days or less, apply for a Commercial Vacation Rental License ($150 fee) or Homesteader Hardship License. 3. Provide a safety certification from a licensed professional or schedule a Building Department inspection.

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