Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Block Island, RI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Block Island, RI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (30 days or less) are permitted but require annual registration and a $200 fee. Occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom (not exceeding septic capacity), and a local representative must be physically present on the island to respond to officials within two hours. 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 (30 days or less) are permitted but require annual registration and a $200 fee. Occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom (not exceeding septic capacity), and a local representative must be physically present on the island to respond to officials within two hours.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Block Island. 1. Register the dwelling unit annually with the Zoning Official via the town's registration portal before December 31. 2. Pay the $200 registration fee. 3. Ensure the unit is available for inspection by the Zoning Official or Fire Chief to verify occupancy and safety compliance.

1. Register the dwelling unit annually with the Zoning Official via the town's registration portal before December 31. 2. Pay the $200 registration fee. 3. Ensure the unit is available for inspection by the Zoning Official or Fire Chief to verify occupancy and safety compliance.

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