Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lancaster County, VA

STRs are allowed in A-2, R-1, R-3, and R-4 zones. Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom (excluding minors) with a site-wide cap of 20 persons. Hosted rentals require the owner to stay overnight as a primary residence; all STRs are capped at 240 rented nights per year and must maintain $500,000 liability insurance and quiet hours (11 p.m.–7 a.m.).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lancaster County. 1) Determine type: Hosted STRs require administrative approval (no fee) while Unhosted STRs require a Special Exception ($400 fee) and public hearing. 2) Submit the appropriate application with proof of primary residence (for hosted), insurance certificate, and parking plan. 3) Upon approval, register annually ($50 fee) and file monthly Transient Occupancy Tax returns (2%).

1) Determine type: Hosted STRs require administrative approval (no fee) while Unhosted STRs require a Special Exception ($400 fee) and public hearing. 2) Submit the appropriate application with proof of primary residence (for hosted), insurance certificate, and parking plan. 3) Upon approval, register annually ($50 fee) and file monthly Transient Occupancy Tax returns (2%).