Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Alexandria, VA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Alexandria, VA, but with restrictions. STRs are permitted in any zoning district but are limited to a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two (not to exceed 10 total). Operators must provide a Good Neighbor Guide to guests, ensure 24/7 availability to respond to complaints within one hour, and provide on-site or nearby off-site parking. Additionally, parties or events exceeding the occupancy limit are prohibited, and specific restrictions apply to properties with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). 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.

STRs are permitted in any zoning district but are limited to a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two (not to exceed 10 total). Operators must provide a Good Neighbor Guide to guests, ensure 24/7 availability to respond to complaints within one hour, and provide on-site or nearby off-site parking. Additionally, parties or events exceeding the occupancy limit are prohibited, and specific restrictions apply to properties with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Alexandria. 1. Submit an STR permit application to the Department of Planning & Zoning including proof of ownership, fire safety certification, and a Good Neighbor Guide certification. 2. Send written notice to all abutting properties via registered or certified mail with operator contact info and permit details. 3. Pay the annual non-refundable fee ($100 for owner-occupied, $350 for owner-unoccupied) and renew the permit annually.

1. Submit an STR permit application to the Department of Planning & Zoning including proof of ownership, fire safety certification, and a Good Neighbor Guide certification. 2. Send written notice to all abutting properties via registered or certified mail with operator contact info and permit details. 3. Pay the annual non-refundable fee ($100 for owner-occupied, $350 for owner-unoccupied) and renew the permit annually.

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