Short-Term Rentals in Arapahoe County, CO (2026)
5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Arapahoe County, Colorado.
Verified from official government sources
Short-Term Rental Permits
As of early 2026, unincorporated Arapahoe County does not have an STR licensing or registration requirement. STRs are currently allowed by right in residential areas. The county is developing proposed licensing regulations with a local responsible agent requirement and possible 500-foot separation rule.
Arapahoe County Short-Term Rental Rules
Few RestrictionsArapahoe County Proposed STR Program — Licensing Options
Arapahoe County is proposing a new licensing program and set of rules for Short-Term Rentals (STR) in unincorporated areas. The initiative aims to ensure that STRs are well-managed and safe, while also protecting the quality of life for nearby residents. At the same time, it provides property owners the opportunity to earn income by renting their homes responsibly. The public is invited to weig...
Noise Rules
The proposed Arapahoe County STR regulations require that amplified music and noise from short-term rentals not exceed levels allowed by Colorado Revised Statutes. State noise limits of 55 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime at property boundaries apply.
Arapahoe County STR Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsArapahoe County Proposed STR Program — Noise Rules
Rules that apply to both options: Each STR License must list a designated local responsible agent who can be reached within 15 minutes and, if necessary to resolve issues, be able to be on-site within 60 minutes to address concerns. Amplified music or other noise must not exceed levels allowed by Colorado Revised Statutes. A parking plan must be shared with renters; a minimum of one space for s...
Taxes & Fees
Short-term rentals in unincorporated Arapahoe County are subject to the 3.9% Colorado state accommodations tax. There is no county-level lodging tax currently. Proposed STR licensing fees include $200 for application and $350 annual license fee.
Arapahoe County STR Taxes & Fees
Some RestrictionsArapahoe County Proposed STR Program — Fees and Options
Proposed fees are $200 for a new application and $350 for an annual license. A public hearing before the Planning Commission is set for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 21 within the Arapahoe Board Room, 6954 S. Lima St., in Centennial. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a hearing in the coming weeks. If adopted the regulations will go into effect in spring 2026. Learn more at www.arapahoeco.gov/LDCamen...
Short-Term Rental Parking Rules
Proposed Arapahoe County STR regulations require operators to provide a parking plan to renters. A minimum of one parking space is required for studio or one-bedroom units and two spaces for larger units. The county's 2025 parking ordinance also applies.
Arapahoe County STR Parking Requirements
Some RestrictionsArapahoe County Proposed STR Program — Parking Plan Requirements
Rules that apply to both options: Each STR License must list a designated local responsible agent who can be reached within 15 minutes and, if necessary to resolve issues, be able to be on-site within 60 minutes to address concerns. Amplified music or other noise must not exceed levels allowed by Colorado Revised Statutes. A parking plan must be shared with renters; a minimum of one space for s...
Occupancy Limits
Proposed Arapahoe County STR regulations cap occupancy at 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, with a hard limit based on bedroom count. Listings must state the maximum, and sleeping in garages, RVs, or tents on the property is prohibited.
short-term-rentals/occupancy-limits
Some RestrictionsArapahoe County Proposed STR Program — Baseline Rules
Rules that apply to both options: Each STR License must list a designated local responsible agent who can be reached within 15 minutes and, if necessary to resolve issues, be able to be on-site within 60 minutes to address concerns. Amplified music or other noise must not exceed levels allowed by Colorado Revised Statutes. A parking plan must be shared with renters; a minimum of one space for s...
Short-Term Rentals by City in Arapahoe County
2 cities in Arapahoe County have their own short-term rentals rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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