Suffolk, VA Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Parking Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Guest parking
- 1 space per guest bedroom
- Owner parking
- 2 spaces
- Screening
- Required at 4+ spaces
- Code
- UDO Sec. 31-703(b)
Summary
Suffolk sets no standalone short-term rental parking rule. Because transient lodging is regulated as a bed and breakfast, UDO Section 31-703(b) requires one off-street parking space per guest bedroom plus two spaces for the owner's dwelling.
A minimum of one parking space shall be provided for each guest bedroom and two spaces for the owner's portion of the dwelling. Additional parking shall be required if reception or party space is available. If four (4) or more off-street parking spaces are provided, visual screening from adjacent residential uses shall be required.
(c) One (1) sign shall be permitted, with a size limit of two (2) square feet on roads with a speed limit of thirty (30) miles per hour or less and six (6) square feet on roads with a speed limit greater than thirty (30) miles per hour. Internally illuminated signs are not permitted. Externally illuminated signs shall meet the lighting standards of this Ordinance.
(d) No receptions, private parties or similar activities shall be permitted unless expressly approved as part of the Conditional Use Permit or Site Plan Application.
(e) No long-term rental of rooms shall be permitted. The maximum length of stay shall be thirty (30) days.
(f) All guest rooms shall be located within the principal structure, provided that an accessory unit may be used for guests rooms if less than thirty-five percent (35%) of the total living area of the principal dwelling unit. The use of accessory units for guest rooms shall not be permitted in the RC or RU zoning districts.
(g) Other than registered guests, no meals shall be served to the general public unless expressly approved as part of the conditional use permit, site plan application, or
Full Breakdown
Parking for short-term lodging follows the bed-and-breakfast standard in Section 31-703(b): a minimum of one off-street space for each guest bedroom and two spaces for the owner's portion of the dwelling. If reception or party space is offered, additional parking is required, and once four or more off-street spaces are provided, visual screening from adjacent homes is required. These conditions are fixed through the conditional use permit in residential districts. Suffolk has no separate whole-house short-term rental parking ordinance, because its zoning code does not recognize that use.
Violations & Fines
Failing to provide the required off-street parking is a zoning violation that can block or void the conditional use permit and draw Suffolk Community Development enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much parking does a Suffolk rental need?
Can guests park on the street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Suffolk
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