Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Raleigh, NC

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are permitted as a Limited Use in zoning districts R-1, R-2, R-4, R-6, R-10, RX, OX, NX, CX, and DX. In multi-unit buildings, no more than 25% or two units (whichever is greater) may be used for STRs. Operators must maintain a 3-year guest list, post permit numbers on advertisements, and ensure no cooking facilities are in bedrooms (except studio units).

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Complete the Short-Term Rental Application and Owner’s Affidavit (multi-unit buildings must also provide a building layout). 2. Submit the entire application packet as a PDF via the City of Raleigh Permit and Development Portal. 3. Pay the required zoning permit fee, which is collected after initial review and when the permit is issued.

Regulatory Updates — Raleigh

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedOctober 2024

25% Multi-Unit Cap Enforcement in Downtown Condos

Raleigh enforced its 25%-of-units STR cap in multi-unit buildings, requiring buildings at or above the threshold to decline new STR permit applications and notifying affected operators of their building's current compliance status.

PassedMay 2024

STR Permit Renewal System Digitized

Raleigh moved its STR permit renewal process entirely online, enabling operators to renew, update contact information, and verify zone eligibility without visiting the Planning and Development department.

PassedJanuary 2024

Zone Eligibility Update for New UDO Districts

Following a unified development ordinance update, Raleigh clarified which new zone designations are eligible for STR Limited Use, confirming that RX, OX, NX, CX, and DX mixed zones remain eligible in addition to traditional residential zones.

Official Resources

Official Raleigh STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)National

National trade association providing advocacy and compliance resources for vacation rental professionals in Raleigh and the Research Triangle STR market.

North Carolina Association of RealtorsStatewide

Statewide real estate organization monitoring Raleigh STR ordinances and advocating for reasonable permit standards and zone eligibility for North Carolina property owners.

Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors BureauLocal

Local destination marketing organization tracking STR accommodation supply and its role in supporting Raleigh's growing convention, sports, and Research Triangle visitor economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Raleigh, NC?
Short-term rentals are permitted as a Limited Use in zoning districts R-1, R-2, R-4, R-6, R-10, RX, OX, NX, CX, and DX. In multi-unit buildings, no more than 25% or two units (whichever is greater) may be used for STRs. Operators must maintain a 3-year guest list, post permit numbers on advertisements, and ensure no cooking facilities are in bedrooms (except studio units).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Raleigh?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Raleigh. 1. Complete the Short-Term Rental Application and Owner’s Affidavit (multi-unit buildings must also provide a building layout). 2. Submit the entire application packet as a PDF via the City of Raleigh Permit and Development Portal. 3. Pay the required zoning permit fee, which is collected after initial review and when the permit is issued.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Raleigh?
1. Complete the Short-Term Rental Application and Owner’s Affidavit (multi-unit buildings must also provide a building layout). 2. Submit the entire application packet as a PDF via the City of Raleigh Permit and Development Portal. 3. Pay the required zoning permit fee, which is collected after initial review and when the permit is issued.
Can I operate an STR in my Raleigh single-family home?
Likely yes. Raleigh permits STRs as a Limited Use in R-1, R-2, R-4, R-6, R-10, and a range of mixed-use zones. Most single-family properties are in eligible zones. Confirm your specific zone designation before listing to ensure it appears on the eligible zone list.
What is the 25% cap for STRs in multi-unit Raleigh buildings?
In any multi-unit building (apartment, condo, etc.), no more than 25% of units — or two units, whichever is greater — may be permitted as STRs simultaneously. If a building is at the cap, new applications for units in that building will be denied until existing STR permits in the building expire.
Does North Carolina have a law that prevents Raleigh from banning STRs?
No. North Carolina has no statewide STR preemption law. Raleigh could restrict or ban STRs through ordinance changes. However, the Research Triangle's growth economy and strong business travel market make sweeping STR bans politically unlikely in the near term.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Raleigh, NC?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

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: March 2026 · Suggest a correction