Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lancaster, OH

Short-term rentals are defined as dwellings with five or fewer guestrooms rented for less than 30 days. Operators must provide a local host available 24/7 who can respond within one hour, pass BCI/FBI background checks for all management parties, and adhere to occupancy limits set by the Building Department. Parking is restricted to onsite spaces (except in the Central Business District), and exterior advertising is prohibited.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lancaster. 1) Submit a Zoning Clearance Permit application to the Planning & Zoning Department including a site plan, floor plan, and BCI/FBI background checks for the applicant and local host. 2) Obtain an Occupancy Permit from the Building Department to verify compliance with fire and building codes (e.g., smoke detectors, fire extinguishers). 3) Pay the required fees and renew the permit every two years by the first Monday in November of the expiration year.

1) Submit a Zoning Clearance Permit application to the Planning & Zoning Department including a site plan, floor plan, and BCI/FBI background checks for the applicant and local host. 2) Obtain an Occupancy Permit from the Building Department to verify compliance with fire and building codes (e.g., smoke detectors, fire extinguishers). 3) Pay the required fees and renew the permit every two years by the first Monday in November of the expiration year.