Comparent
RestrictedCounty

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Clarke County, VA

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are allowed in the AOC and FOC zoning districts. A maximum of two dwellings per lot may be used for STR activities. Occupancy is limited to one 'customer' (group) at a time for fewer than 30 days, and the onsite sewage disposal system must be confirmed by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to support the proposed occupancy.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete and submit the Short-Term Residential Rental Zoning Permit Application to the Zoning Department. 2) If the property uses an onsite sewage system, obtain and attach written confirmation from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) that the system supports the proposed occupancy. 3) Pay the required fee as listed in the county's fee schedule and await zoning review and approval.

Official Resources

Official Clarke County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Clarke County, VA?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Clarke County, VA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are allowed in the AOC and FOC zoning districts. A maximum of two dwellings per lot may be used for STR activities. Occupancy is limited to one 'customer' (group) at a time for fewer than 30 days, and the onsite sewage disposal system must be confirmed by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to support the proposed occupancy. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Clarke County, VA?
Short-term rentals are allowed in the AOC and FOC zoning districts. A maximum of two dwellings per lot may be used for STR activities. Occupancy is limited to one 'customer' (group) at a time for fewer than 30 days, and the onsite sewage disposal system must be confirmed by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to support the proposed occupancy.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Clarke County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Clarke County. 1) Complete and submit the Short-Term Residential Rental Zoning Permit Application to the Zoning Department. 2) If the property uses an onsite sewage system, obtain and attach written confirmation from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) that the system supports the proposed occupancy. 3) Pay the required fee as listed in the county's fee schedule and await zoning review and approval.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Clarke County?
1) Complete and submit the Short-Term Residential Rental Zoning Permit Application to the Zoning Department. 2) If the property uses an onsite sewage system, obtain and attach written confirmation from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) that the system supports the proposed occupancy. 3) Pay the required fee as listed in the county's fee schedule and await zoning review and approval.
Is Vrbo legal in Clarke County, VA?
Vrbo is permitted in Clarke County, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Clarke County?
Short-term rental hosts in Clarke County 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Clarke County?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Clarke County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction