Arapahoe County, CO Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)

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 weigh in on two proposed approaches, both intended to limit impacts on neighborhoods. Both create a license process and the same baseline rules (below). They differ in how they limit impacts: Option A – Primary Residence Only an owner or lessee (tenant) may apply if the STR is their primary residence. Proof of primary residence required (e.g., CO driver's license or vehicle/voter registration, tax return, or utility bill). No annual day cap and no day-count reporting to the County. Option B – 180-Day Cap Only a property owner may apply (the STR does not have to be the owner's primary residence). Rentals are limited to 180 days per calendar year (each overnight stay = one day). Annual reporting is required to verify total rented days.