Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Harrisonburg, VA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Harrisonburg, VA, but with restrictions. Homestays are restricted to the operator's primary residence with the operator present, capped at 45 nights per year and 6 guests. Short-term rentals (STRs) require a Special Use Permit (SUP), must provide one off-street parking space per accommodation space, and are prohibited from hosting events like weddings unless specifically approved via the SUP. 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.

Homestays are restricted to the operator's primary residence with the operator present, capped at 45 nights per year and 6 guests. Short-term rentals (STRs) require a Special Use Permit (SUP), must provide one off-street parking space per accommodation space, and are prohibited from hosting events like weddings unless specifically approved via the SUP.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Harrisonburg. 1. Determine if the operation is a 'homestay' (by-right) or 'STR' (requires a Special Use Permit from City Council). 2. Register annually with the Department of Community Development between Jan 1 and Mar 1 ($25 fee) and provide proof of primary residence. 3. Obtain a business license and register for transient occupancy and state sales tax.

1. Determine if the operation is a 'homestay' (by-right) or 'STR' (requires a Special Use Permit from City Council). 2. Register annually with the Department of Community Development between Jan 1 and Mar 1 ($25 fee) and provide proof of primary residence. 3. Obtain a business license and register for transient occupancy and state sales tax.

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