Permit Requirements: Columbus vs Westerville
How do permit requirements rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Westerville has fewer restrictions than Columbus.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Columbus City Code Chapter 598 requires all STR operators to obtain an annual permit before listing. Application requires BCI background check, $300,000 liability insurance, letter of good standing, and 24/7 local contact. Permit fee: $75/year primary residence, $150/year non-primary.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Westerville does not have a dedicated short-term rental licensing ordinance, but STRs must comply with residential zoning, the city lodging tax registration, and Franklin/Delaware County health and safety rules. Operators should register with the Westerville Income Tax Division for bed tax collection.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $75/yr primary; $150/yr non-primary | - |
| Insurance | $300,000 liability required | - |
| Background Check | BCI check required ($32) | - |
| Code Section | Columbus City Code Chapter 598 | - |
| STR Permit | - | No dedicated permit required |
| Lodging Tax Reg | - | Required with Income Tax Division |
| Zoning | - | Allowed in residential, no alteration of character |
| HOA | - | Often prohibits STRs |
| State | - | No Ohio STR preemption |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Columbus?
Columbus City Code Chapter 598 requires all STR operators to obtain an annual permit before listing. Application requires BCI background check, $300,000 liability insurance, letter of good standing, and 24/7 local contact. Permit fee: $75/year primary residence, $150/year non-primary.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Columbus?
Permit Fee: $75/yr primary; $150/yr non-primary. Insurance: $300,000 liability required. Background Check: BCI check required ($32). Code Section: Columbus City Code Chapter 598.
Westerville FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Westerville?
No dedicated STR permit is required, but you must register with the Westerville Income Tax Division to collect the 3% lodging tax and comply with residential zoning and safety codes.
Can my HOA ban my Airbnb?
Yes. Ohio ORC Chapter 5312 allows HOAs to enforce recorded covenants, and many Westerville subdivisions prohibit rentals under 30 days.
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