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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Petersburg (city) County, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are allowed only in specified zoning districts (R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, RB, MXD-1, MXD-2, B-2, B-3) and must generally be located within the operator’s primary residence; occupancy is limited to the maximum occupancy for the underlying zoning/dwelling and multi-family buildings are limited to 10 units or one-third (1/3) of units (whichever is less). Operators must submit floor plans, post emergency/contact information, maintain required smoke/carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, carry commercial general liability insurance, and comply with use standards (no exterior signage, no food service by operator, no RVs/buses/trailers visible, no double-booking).

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Register annually with the City’s Planning Department via the online form and submit required materials including floor plans, operator contact info, proof of insurance, and proof of primary residence. 2) Pass required safety inspections to verify compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. 3) If the STR is not owner-occupied and was not operating prior to June 17, 2025, obtain a Special Use Permit under the Zoning Ordinance.

Official Resources

Official Petersburg (city) County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Petersburg (city) County, VA?
Short-term rentals are allowed only in specified zoning districts (R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, RB, MXD-1, MXD-2, B-2, B-3) and must generally be located within the operator’s primary residence; occupancy is limited to the maximum occupancy for the underlying zoning/dwelling and multi-family buildings are limited to 10 units or one-third (1/3) of units (whichever is less). Operators must submit floor plans, post emergency/contact information, maintain required smoke/carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, carry commercial general liability insurance, and comply with use standards (no exterior signage, no food service by operator, no RVs/buses/trailers visible, no double-booking).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Petersburg (city) County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Petersburg (city) County. 1) Register annually with the City’s Planning Department via the online form and submit required materials including floor plans, operator contact info, proof of insurance, and proof of primary residence. 2) Pass required safety inspections to verify compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. 3) If the STR is not owner-occupied and was not operating prior to June 17, 2025, obtain a Special Use Permit under the Zoning Ordinance.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Petersburg (city) County?
1) Register annually with the City’s Planning Department via the online form and submit required materials including floor plans, operator contact info, proof of insurance, and proof of primary residence. 2) Pass required safety inspections to verify compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. 3) If the STR is not owner-occupied and was not operating prior to June 17, 2025, obtain a Special Use Permit under the Zoning Ordinance.

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