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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Washington, UT

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are restricted to designated/approved subdivisions. Each unit requires a business license, annual fire department inspections, and a local point of contact residing in Washington County; units with occupancy over 10 must have fire suppression systems.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Verify the property is in an approved subdivision and apply for a Washington City business license for each unit. 2) Schedule and pass an annual fire department inspection. 3) Designate a local point of contact residing in Washington County and comply with any HOA/PUD requirements.

Regulatory Updates — Washington

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedJune 2024

Washington City STR Business License Requirement

All STR operators must obtain an annual city business license; fire safety inspections including smoke detectors, CO detectors, and fire extinguisher compliance are required.

Under ReviewAugust 2025

Washington City Zoning Code STR Review

City reviewing whether STRs should be restricted in certain R-1 residential zones given rapid population growth; decision expected in 2026 comp plan update.

PassedJanuary 2025

Washington County Transient Room Tax Increase

County transient room tax increased to 4.25%; all STR operators must register with the county and remit monthly.

Official Resources

Official Washington STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Utah Short Term Rental AssociationStatewide

Statewide advocacy organization representing Utah STR operators; monitors legislation and provides compliance resources.

Washington County TourismLocal

County tourism bureau supporting the vacation rental industry as a key component of Southern Utah's tourism economy.

National Association of Residential Property ManagersNational

National organization providing education, ethics standards, and advocacy for residential property managers including STR operators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Washington, UT?
Short-term rentals are restricted to designated/approved subdivisions. Each unit requires a business license, annual fire department inspections, and a local point of contact residing in Washington County; units with occupancy over 10 must have fire suppression systems.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Washington?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Washington. 1) Verify the property is in an approved subdivision and apply for a Washington City business license for each unit. 2) Schedule and pass an annual fire department inspection. 3) Designate a local point of contact residing in Washington County and comply with any HOA/PUD requirements.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Washington?
1) Verify the property is in an approved subdivision and apply for a Washington City business license for each unit. 2) Schedule and pass an annual fire department inspection. 3) Designate a local point of contact residing in Washington County and comply with any HOA/PUD requirements.
Do I need a permit for an STR in Washington City, Utah?
Yes. A Washington City annual business license is required along with fire safety compliance (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguisher). You must also collect and remit the Washington County transient room tax (4.25%).
Are STRs allowed in all residential zones in Washington City?
Currently STRs are permitted in most zones with a business license. The ongoing zoning code review may restrict them in certain R-1 districts; operators should monitor city council proceedings.
Is there state preemption for STRs in Utah?
No general statewide preemption applies. Individual cities and counties regulate STRs independently. Washington City sets its own requirements separate from neighboring St. George or unincorporated Washington County.
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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