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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Montpelier, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Owner-occupied STRs are permitted as an accessory use if the owner resides there at least 185 days/year; non-owner-occupied STRs require a special exception. Requirements include off-street parking (2 spaces for the dwelling plus 1 per guestroom), a 60-minute response time for complaints, occupancy limits (2x bedrooms, max 10), and a prohibition on check-ins/outs between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application to the Planning Department with proof of principal residence (e.g., driver's license, voter card), a property sketch showing parking, and a septic permit if applicable. 2) Pay the required registration fee. 3) For non-owner-occupied units, apply for a Special Exception which involves a sketch plan and a public hearing process.

Official Resources

Official Montpelier STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Montpelier, VA?
Owner-occupied STRs are permitted as an accessory use if the owner resides there at least 185 days/year; non-owner-occupied STRs require a special exception. Requirements include off-street parking (2 spaces for the dwelling plus 1 per guestroom), a 60-minute response time for complaints, occupancy limits (2x bedrooms, max 10), and a prohibition on check-ins/outs between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Montpelier?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Montpelier. 1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application to the Planning Department with proof of principal residence (e.g., driver's license, voter card), a property sketch showing parking, and a septic permit if applicable. 2) Pay the required registration fee. 3) For non-owner-occupied units, apply for a Special Exception which involves a sketch plan and a public hearing process.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Montpelier?
1) Submit a Short-Term Rental Permit application to the Planning Department with proof of principal residence (e.g., driver's license, voter card), a property sketch showing parking, and a septic permit if applicable. 2) Pay the required registration fee. 3) For non-owner-occupied units, apply for a Special Exception which involves a sketch plan and a public hearing process.

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