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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Herndon, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only as an accessory use to a primary residence where the owner resides at least 7 of the previous 12 months. Occupancy is capped at 6 adults, and rentals are limited to 90 nights per year if the host is not present (unlimited if present). Operators must maintain a guest log and comply with specific safety standards, including interconnected smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application to the Zoning Administrator with a $200 fee, including proof of primary residency (2 forms of ID), a site plan for parking, and HOA notification. 2. Register annually (by Jan 1) with the Department of Finance for the Town’s STR Registry. 3. Register with Fairfax County for Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remit the 6% Town tax monthly.

Official Resources

Official Herndon STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Herndon, VA?
STRs are permitted only as an accessory use to a primary residence where the owner resides at least 7 of the previous 12 months. Occupancy is capped at 6 adults, and rentals are limited to 90 nights per year if the host is not present (unlimited if present). Operators must maintain a guest log and comply with specific safety standards, including interconnected smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Herndon?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Herndon. 1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application to the Zoning Administrator with a $200 fee, including proof of primary residency (2 forms of ID), a site plan for parking, and HOA notification. 2. Register annually (by Jan 1) with the Department of Finance for the Town’s STR Registry. 3. Register with Fairfax County for Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remit the 6% Town tax monthly.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Herndon?
1. Submit a Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application to the Zoning Administrator with a $200 fee, including proof of primary residency (2 forms of ID), a site plan for parking, and HOA notification. 2. Register annually (by Jan 1) with the Department of Finance for the Town’s STR Registry. 3. Register with Fairfax County for Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remit the 6% Town tax monthly.

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