Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Cape Charles, VA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Cape Charles, VA, but with restrictions. STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts and limited to a maximum of five units per owner (one for lessees). Occupancy is capped at two lodgers per bedroom plus two, with a total maximum of 10 overnight guests. Operators must provide a 24/7 local contact, notify adjacent neighbors of their application, and pass annual safety inspections. 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 restricted to specific zoning districts and limited to a maximum of five units per owner (one for lessees). Occupancy is capped at two lodgers per bedroom plus two, with a total maximum of 10 overnight guests. Operators must provide a 24/7 local contact, notify adjacent neighbors of their application, and pass annual safety inspections.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Cape Charles. 1. Apply for an annual STR Certificate via the Town's STR Customer Portal. 2. Obtain an annual business license from the Finance Department and pass a physical safety inspection conducted by the Building Department. 3. Submit the STR zoning permit application including neighbor notification certification and required fees for final issuance by the Zoning Department.

1. Apply for an annual STR Certificate via the Town's STR Customer Portal. 2. Obtain an annual business license from the Finance Department and pass a physical safety inspection conducted by the Building Department. 3. Submit the STR zoning permit application including neighbor notification certification and required fees for final issuance by the Zoning Department.

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