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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in City of Harrisonburg County, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Homestays are restricted to the operator's primary residence, limited to 4 guests and 90 nights per year, and prohibited in multi-family buildings or accessory structures. STRs approved via Special Use Permit (SUP) may operate in multi-family units (after renovations) and accessory structures without the 90-night cap unless specifically conditioned by the City Council. Both require a business license and transient occupancy tax registration.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Determine if the use is a by-right homestay or requires a Special Use Permit (SUP). 2. For homestays, submit the annual registration form (online or PDF) with a $25 fee and proof of primary residence. 3. For STRs requiring an SUP, submit a one-time application ($425 + acreage fee) for Planning Commission review and City Council approval. 4. Obtain a business license and register for transient occupancy taxes with the Commissioner of Revenue.

Official Resources

Official City of Harrisonburg County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in City of Harrisonburg County, VA?
Homestays are restricted to the operator's primary residence, limited to 4 guests and 90 nights per year, and prohibited in multi-family buildings or accessory structures. STRs approved via Special Use Permit (SUP) may operate in multi-family units (after renovations) and accessory structures without the 90-night cap unless specifically conditioned by the City Council. Both require a business license and transient occupancy tax registration.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in City of Harrisonburg County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in City of Harrisonburg County. 1. Determine if the use is a by-right homestay or requires a Special Use Permit (SUP). 2. For homestays, submit the annual registration form (online or PDF) with a $25 fee and proof of primary residence. 3. For STRs requiring an SUP, submit a one-time application ($425 + acreage fee) for Planning Commission review and City Council approval. 4. Obtain a business license and register for transient occupancy taxes with the Commissioner of Revenue.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in City of Harrisonburg County?
1. Determine if the use is a by-right homestay or requires a Special Use Permit (SUP). 2. For homestays, submit the annual registration form (online or PDF) with a $25 fee and proof of primary residence. 3. For STRs requiring an SUP, submit a one-time application ($425 + acreage fee) for Planning Commission review and City Council approval. 4. Obtain a business license and register for transient occupancy taxes with the Commissioner of Revenue.

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