Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Randolph County, WV

Airbnb listings are allowed in Randolph County, WV, but with restrictions. Short- and long-term rentals are treated as businesses regulated under the Elkins 2022 Zoning Code and the City’s Rental Registration Program. Rentals must meet specific zoning requirements (e.g., lodging uses like Bed & Breakfasts are permitted or conditional depending on the zone) and must obtain a certificate of use and occupancy following a safety inspection, which requires recertification every three years. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short- and long-term rentals are treated as businesses regulated under the Elkins 2022 Zoning Code and the City’s Rental Registration Program. Rentals must meet specific zoning requirements (e.g., lodging uses like Bed & Breakfasts are permitted or conditional depending on the zone) and must obtain a certificate of use and occupancy following a safety inspection, which requires recertification every three years.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Randolph County. 1) Obtain a zoning permit to ensure the rental use is allowed at the property. 2) Apply for a City of Elkins business license (requires a state business registration first). 3) Submit a Certificate of Use and Occupancy application under the Rental Registration Program, pay the $30 per unit fee, and pass a safety inspection; compliance must be recertified every three years.

1) Obtain a zoning permit to ensure the rental use is allowed at the property. 2) Apply for a City of Elkins business license (requires a state business registration first). 3) Submit a Certificate of Use and Occupancy application under the Rental Registration Program, pay the $30 per unit fee, and pass a safety inspection; compliance must be recertified every three years.

Vrbo is permitted in Randolph County, WV under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Randolph County are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Randolph County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.