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Short-Term Rentals in Durham, NC (2026)

8 verified short-term rentals rules for Durham, North Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Permit Requirements

Durham STR operators must obtain a business license, submit floor plans and ownership proof, and pass annual safety inspections under the Durham Housing Code.

Durham Short-Term Rental Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Noise Rules

Durham STRs must comply with the general noise ordinance. NC cities commonly impose additional noise conditions on STR permits.

Durham STR Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

Taxes & Fees

Durham STRs are subject to NC state sales tax (4.75% + local) and local Room Occupancy Tax under N.C.G.S. §105-164.4.

Durham STR Taxes & Fees

Some Restrictions

Parking Rules

Durham STRs need one off-street parking space per bedroom for guests. Standard Durham parking rules apply on public streets near the rental property.

Durham Short-Term Rental Parking Rules

Some Restrictions

Occupancy Limits

Durham caps STR occupancy at two guests per bedroom plus two additional, maximum 10 total. The Housing Code limits unrelated long-term occupants to three per unit.

Durham Short-Term Rental Occupancy Limits

Some Restrictions

Insurance Requirements

Durham requires STR operators to carry at least $1 million per-occurrence liability insurance. Proof is required at initial application and every annual renewal.

Durham Short-Term Rental Insurance Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Night Caps

Durham imposes no annual night cap on STR operations. Licensed properties may rent year-round. Zoning controls limit STR density by district instead.

Durham Short-Term Rental Night Caps

Few Restrictions

Registration Rules

Durham STR operators must register for a business license before listing and separately register with NC and Durham County to collect lodging taxes.

Durham Short-Term Rental Registration Rules

Some Restrictions