A Colorado county just approved a new short-term rental rulebook, and it could make opening a new Airbnb much harder in some residential areas.
Arapahoe County leaders recently approved new STR regulations that are set to take effect in June, according to local NBC outlet “9 News.”
“The new regulations aim to ensure short-term rentals operate safely, responsibly, and in harmony with surrounding neighborhoods, while protecting long-term housing availability across the county,” Arapahoe County said in a news release.
The biggest change for short-term rental owners
The biggest change is a 500-foot buffer rule, which blocks new short-term rentals from opening within 500 feet of an already licensed rental in unincorporated areas.
In plain English, once one short-term rental property is licensed nearby, the next hopeful host may be out of luck.
There are a few exceptions. Properties that qualify for legacy status may be allowed to continue, and multifamily buildings will face a countywide cap of 100 licenses.
The rules also tighten who can operate. Only a property owner or long-term lessee can apply for a license, and in most cases, the home must be the applicant’s primary residence. Applicants will need to prove that with documents like a Colorado driver’s license, voter registration, tax return, vehicle registration, or utility bill.
The costs are also spelled out, making it simple for operators to follow.
The initial application fee is $200, followed by a $350 annual license fee.
Each rental must also have a local responsible agent who can answer the phone within 15 minutes and show up within 60 minutes if neighbors or guests have a problem.
“Short-term rentals bring real economic benefit to our residents, but they also come with real responsibilities to neighbors and communities,” said Arapahoe County Commissioner Leslie Summey.
“These regulations strike the right balance — protecting the character of our neighborhoods, maintaining housing availability, and giving property owners a clear, fair framework to operate within. Arapahoe County took the time to get this right, and I’m proud of the thoughtful process that got us here,” Summey added.
Here are some of the rules you should be aware of if you’re an owner or operator in this area:
- Who can apply:
Only a property owner or long-term lessee can apply for a short-term rental license. - Primary residence rule
The property must be the applicant’s primary residence unless it qualifies for a legacy exemption. - Proof required
Applicants must show proof of primary residence, such as a Colorado driver’s license, vehicle registration, voter registration, tax return, or utility bill. - 500-foot buffer
New short-term rentals generally cannot operate within 500 feet of an existing licensed STR unless they qualify for legacy status. - Multifamily cap
Apartments and condos are capped at 100 short-term rental licenses countywide. After that, applicants go on a waitlist. - Local contact required
Each rental must have a local responsible agent who can answer calls within 15 minutes and arrive on-site within 60 minutes. - Operating standards
Rentals must follow county rules for noise, parking, and occupancy. - Safety requirements
STRs must meet building, fire, and health codes, including working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. - Fees
The initial application fee is $200, and the annual license fee is $350.
Editor’s note: Always check your local city and state rules and ordinances for the most up-to-date rules and regulations of short-Short-term rental rules, fees, eligibility requirements, and enforcement timelines can change quickly. Property owners and operators should review the full local ordinance and consult the county or a qualified legal professional before making licensing, investment, or operating decisions.
