Permit Requirements: Dublin vs Westerville
How do permit requirements rules compare between Dublin, OH and Westerville, OH?
Westerville has fewer restrictions than Dublin.
Dublin, OH
Franklin County
Dublin does not expressly permit short-term rentals in residential zones under its Zoning Code. STRs operate in a gray area and are treated as transient lodging, which is restricted to hotel/motel commercial districts. No dedicated STR registration program exists as of 2026.
View full Dublin 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 | Dublin | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Zoning | STR not listed as residential use | Allowed in residential, no alteration of character |
| Permitted Zones | Commercial lodging districts only | - |
| Registration | No dedicated program | - |
| HOAs | Often prohibit rentals under 30 days | - |
| Enforcement | Complaint-driven zoning | - |
| STR Permit | - | No dedicated permit required |
| Lodging Tax Reg | - | Required with Income Tax Division |
| HOA | - | Often prohibits STRs |
| State | - | No Ohio STR preemption |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dublin FAQ
Can I list my Dublin home on Airbnb?
Dublin zoning does not clearly authorize short-term rentals in residential zones. Hosts should verify with the Planning Division and review HOA covenants before listing.
Who enforces this in Dublin?
Dublin code enforcement at (614) 410-4400 handles complaints.
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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