Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Fairfax County, VA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Fairfax County, VA, but with restrictions. Short-term lodging (STL) is permitted as an accessory use in residential zoning when the operator is a permanent resident; use is limited to 60 nights per calendar year, a maximum of six adults per night, and one rental contract per night. Certain housing types like detached accessory structures and affordable units are prohibited, and operators must provide specific life-safety features and designated off-street parking. 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.

Short-term lodging (STL) is permitted as an accessory use in residential zoning when the operator is a permanent resident; use is limited to 60 nights per calendar year, a maximum of six adults per night, and one rental contract per night. Certain housing types like detached accessory structures and affordable units are prohibited, and operators must provide specific life-safety features and designated off-street parking.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Fairfax County. 1) Submit an electronic application via the Fairfax County PLUS portal and pay the $270 fee. 2) Upload required documents including two forms of ID for residency proof, an Authorized Agent letter, and owner permission if applicable. 3) Wait approximately 14 days for processing; the permit is valid for two years and the property must be available for inspection upon request.

1) Submit an electronic application via the Fairfax County PLUS portal and pay the $270 fee. 2) Upload required documents including two forms of ID for residency proof, an Authorized Agent letter, and owner permission if applicable. 3) Wait approximately 14 days for processing; the permit is valid for two years and the property must be available for inspection upon request.

Vrbo is permitted in Fairfax 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Fairfax 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Fairfax County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.