Short-Term Rentals in Newport News, VA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Newport News or are thinking about moving there, short-term rentals are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Newport News has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of short-term rentals, and some of them might surprise you.
Occupancy Limits
Newport News limits short-term rental occupancy to two guests per bedroom, with a citywide cap of six guests per property. Rentals must be the host's primary residence (occupied at least 185 days per year), and a zoning permit is required before listing.
Key details: Max guests per bedroom: 2 guests. Overall occupancy cap: 6 guests per property. Primary-residence minimum: 185 days per year. Zoning code section: §45-517.1 / Ch. 33.02. Enforcement started: August 1, 2025.
Unpermitted operation or occupancy-limit violations are zoning infractions; owners receive a 30-day cure notice. Continued non-compliance constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor subject to fines up to $2,500 and/or up to 12 months imprisonment.
This is one of the stricter rules in Newport News's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Insurance Requirements
Newport News requires all short-term rental operators to carry a minimum of $300,000 in liability insurance and submit proof with their annual zoning compliance application. The rule applies to owner-occupied primary residences rented short-term.
Key details: Minimum liability insurance: $300,000. Permit fee: $150 per year. Primary-residence minimum: 185 days per year. Governing section: Zoning Ord. § 45-517.1.
Violations trigger a 30-day correction period. Continued non-compliance results in permit suspension and a two-year prohibition on reapplying.
Noise Rules
STR guests in Newport News must comply with the city's noise ordinance (§28-36). Operators must inform guests about quiet hours and noise rules. Repeated violations may affect the STR permit.
Key details: Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM. Standard: Plainly audible beyond property line. Operator Duty: Must inform guests of rules. Tracking: Violations tracked by property.
Noise violations by STR guests are attributed to the property. Multiple complaints may trigger permit review or revocation.
Permit Requirements
Newport News regulates short-term rentals under Chapter 33.02 of the City Code (Short-Term Rentals). Operators must obtain a permit and comply with safety, registration, and nuisance prevention requirements.
Key details: Code Section: Chapter 33.02. Permit: Required, annual renewal. Safety: Smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers. Local Contact: Must be available during stays. Listing: Must display permit number.
Operating without a permit results in fines and cease-and-desist orders. Properties failing safety standards cannot operate until deficiencies are corrected.
Taxes & Fees
Newport News STR operators must collect and remit transient occupancy tax (lodging tax) on rental income. Virginia state sales tax also applies. Operators must register with the Commissioner of the Revenue.
Key details: Local Tax: Transient occupancy tax. State Tax: Virginia sales tax. Registration: Commissioner of the Revenue. Filing: Regular schedule required.
Failure to collect and remit taxes results in penalties, interest, and back-tax assessments.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Newport News actively enforces its taxes & fees requirements.
Parking Rules
STR guests in Newport News must use available off-street parking. Operators must provide parking instructions. On-street parking follows standard city rules. Vehicles may not block sidewalks or fire hydrants.
Key details: Off-Street: Guests should use available spaces. Operator Duty: Provide parking instructions. Street Parking: Subject to posted restrictions. Blocking: Sidewalks and hydrants prohibited.
Parking violations result in citations. Persistent parking complaints at STR properties may be considered during permit review.
The Bottom Line
Newport News is tougher than many cities when it comes to short-term rentals. Out of the 6 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Newport News, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
This guide is based on Newport News's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.