Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Sterling, VA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are defined as stays under 30 consecutive days and are regulated as two uses: Short-Term Rental—Residential Accessory (STR-RA) and Short-Term Rental—Commercial Whole House (STR-CWH). STR-RA may be rented up to 180 days per calendar year and the operator must occupy the dwelling at least 185 days per year; STR-CWH permissions depend on the property’s zoning and may require Special Exception or Minor Special Exception. Both require one additional parking space beyond the residential requirement; STR-CWH counts as a dwelling for density calculations.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete the Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application packet (attach required exhibits, floor plan, and any verification documents). 2) Apply online via Loudoun’s LandMARC portal using the “Zoning Only—Residential” application (account required), or submit in person or by mail to the Department of Building & Development; pay the zoning permit fee ($165). 3) Register the property annually (registration required by July 1 each year) and comply with business tax/transient occupancy tax obligations as stated by the county.

Official Resources

Official Sterling STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Sterling, VA?
Short-term rentals are defined as stays under 30 consecutive days and are regulated as two uses: Short-Term Rental—Residential Accessory (STR-RA) and Short-Term Rental—Commercial Whole House (STR-CWH). STR-RA may be rented up to 180 days per calendar year and the operator must occupy the dwelling at least 185 days per year; STR-CWH permissions depend on the property’s zoning and may require Special Exception or Minor Special Exception. Both require one additional parking space beyond the residential requirement; STR-CWH counts as a dwelling for density calculations.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Sterling?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Sterling. 1) Complete the Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application packet (attach required exhibits, floor plan, and any verification documents). 2) Apply online via Loudoun’s LandMARC portal using the “Zoning Only—Residential” application (account required), or submit in person or by mail to the Department of Building & Development; pay the zoning permit fee ($165). 3) Register the property annually (registration required by July 1 each year) and comply with business tax/transient occupancy tax obligations as stated by the county.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Sterling?
1) Complete the Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit application packet (attach required exhibits, floor plan, and any verification documents). 2) Apply online via Loudoun’s LandMARC portal using the “Zoning Only—Residential” application (account required), or submit in person or by mail to the Department of Building & Development; pay the zoning permit fee ($165). 3) Register the property annually (registration required by July 1 each year) and comply with business tax/transient occupancy tax obligations as stated by the county.

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