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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Charleston, WV

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Residential rental units must be registered with the City of Charleston; exemptions include transient occupancy in hotels, motels, or bed and breakfasts. Applications may be denied for delinquent B&O taxes, fire/refuse fees, or outstanding zoning fines. Licenses must be renewed annually (July 1–June 30), and failure to register results in a fine of at least $500 per unit per month.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete the 'Application for Residential Rental License' online or via PDF. 2) Provide required account numbers, including City B&O tax, Kanawha County property tax, and Fire/Refuse fee accounts. 3) Submit the application to the Charleston City Collector’s Office; there is no fee to register, but it must be renewed annually by June 30.

Official Resources

Official Charleston STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Charleston, WV?
Residential rental units must be registered with the City of Charleston; exemptions include transient occupancy in hotels, motels, or bed and breakfasts. Applications may be denied for delinquent B&O taxes, fire/refuse fees, or outstanding zoning fines. Licenses must be renewed annually (July 1–June 30), and failure to register results in a fine of at least $500 per unit per month.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Charleston?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Charleston. 1) Complete the 'Application for Residential Rental License' online or via PDF. 2) Provide required account numbers, including City B&O tax, Kanawha County property tax, and Fire/Refuse fee accounts. 3) Submit the application to the Charleston City Collector’s Office; there is no fee to register, but it must be renewed annually by June 30.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Charleston?
1) Complete the 'Application for Residential Rental License' online or via PDF. 2) Provide required account numbers, including City B&O tax, Kanawha County property tax, and Fire/Refuse fee accounts. 3) Submit the application to the Charleston City Collector’s Office; there is no fee to register, but it must be renewed annually by June 30.
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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