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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Northampton County, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Northampton County's ordinance (§ 154.2.120) establishes minimum standards for short-term rentals (STRs), including limiting parking to one space per bedroom plus one additional space on-site, abiding by residential sign and lighting standards, and restricting occupancy to three people per bedroom based on the property record card. All STR units must have smoke alarms in each sleeping room, outside separate sleeping areas, and on each additional story. Noise limits must comply with Chapter 98 NOISE. STRs are prohibited in non-dwelling structures and cannot be used as event venues unless separately permitted. Owners must obtain a business license and register for and pay the Transient Occupancy Tax (5% countywide, 2% within Cape Charles corporate limits).

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a business license by completing, submitting, and paying associated fees to Northampton County. 2. Register for the Transient Occupancy Tax by completing and submitting the Transient Occupancy Registration Form to the County Commissioner of the Revenue. Upon receipt, a numbered license will be issued for filing and paying the tax.

Official Resources

Official Northampton County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Northampton County, VA?
Northampton County's ordinance (§ 154.2.120) establishes minimum standards for short-term rentals (STRs), including limiting parking to one space per bedroom plus one additional space on-site, abiding by residential sign and lighting standards, and restricting occupancy to three people per bedroom based on the property record card. All STR units must have smoke alarms in each sleeping room, outside separate sleeping areas, and on each additional story. Noise limits must comply with Chapter 98 NOISE. STRs are prohibited in non-dwelling structures and cannot be used as event venues unless separately permitted. Owners must obtain a business license and register for and pay the Transient Occupancy Tax (5% countywide, 2% within Cape Charles corporate limits).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Northampton County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Northampton County. 1. Obtain a business license by completing, submitting, and paying associated fees to Northampton County. 2. Register for the Transient Occupancy Tax by completing and submitting the Transient Occupancy Registration Form to the County Commissioner of the Revenue. Upon receipt, a numbered license will be issued for filing and paying the tax.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Northampton County?
1. Obtain a business license by completing, submitting, and paying associated fees to Northampton County. 2. Register for the Transient Occupancy Tax by completing and submitting the Transient Occupancy Registration Form to the County Commissioner of the Revenue. Upon receipt, a numbered license will be issued for filing and paying the tax.

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