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Boulder County, CO Short-Term Rentals: Insurance Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Insurance required
Yes, at application
Minimum liability
$500,000
Rental exposure
Must be shown on certificate
Certificate update
Yearly and on policy change
Coverage duration
Full two-year license period

Summary

Yes. Applicants must show a certificate of insurance with adequate liability and property limits insuring at least $500,000 in liability and reflecting rental exposure. Coverage must stay in place for the entire two-year license period.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Boulder County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Applicant must demonstrate that the proposed Licensed Premises is covered by appropriate insurance in the form of a certificate of insurance with adequate liability and property insurance limits that must at a minimum, insure liability at $500,000 and show a rental exposure.

Full Breakdown

Section 4.A.2 requires proof of insurance as a condition of licensing: a certificate of insurance with adequate liability and property limits that at a minimum insures $500,000 in liability and shows a rental exposure. A new insurance certificate must be submitted yearly when the policy renews, or any time the policy changes. Boulder County's program confirms coverage must remain in force for the full duration of the two-year license, not just individual bookings. Standard homeowner's policies often exclude commercial rental use, so hosts typically need a short-term rental endorsement or dedicated policy showing rental exposure.

Violations & Fines

Failing to maintain or update the required insurance certificate is an ordinance violation and can block issuance or renewal, with fines and possible license suspension for continued non-compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much liability insurance do I need?
At least $500,000 in liability coverage, with a certificate of insurance showing rental exposure and adequate liability and property limits.
Does my regular homeowner's policy count?
Only if it shows rental exposure and meets the limits. Many homeowner's policies exclude short-term rental use, so a rental endorsement or dedicated policy is usually needed.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Boulder County

All Boulder County rules

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