Short-term rental permit rules in Chesapeake, VA β also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration β list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Chesapeake regulates short-term rentals through its Zoning Ordinance. Operators must obtain a conditional use permit or administrative zoning approval depending on district, plus a city business license and transient occupancy registration.
Under VA Code Β§15.2-983 localities may require STR registration. Chesapeake defines short-term lodging as a rental of a dwelling unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days. The use is regulated through the Zoning Ordinance and in most residential districts requires a conditional use permit (CUP) approved by City Council. Operators must register with the Commissioner of the Revenue for transient occupancy tax collection and business licensing. A local point of contact reachable within a set response time is required. Life safety items including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and posted emergency information must be in place.
Operating without required zoning approval is a zoning violation with civil penalties up to $200 per day. Unregistered TOT collection can trigger tax assessments and penalties.
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake does not impose gas leaf blower bans or specific decibel caps. Leaf blower use is regulated by the general noise ordinance (City Code Chapter 38) ...
Chesapeake, VA
Vehicle noise in Chesapeake includes restrictions on modified exhaust, squealing tires, and loud car audio. Sound systems audible at 50 feet can be cited und...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake treats persistent dog barking as a public nuisance under City Code Chapter 10 (Animals) and Chapter 38 (Noise). Barking that continues for 20 minu...
Chesapeake, VA
Amplified music in Chesapeake must not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM (11 PM to 8 AM on weekends). Outdoor events with ...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake fence height limits are typically 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in rear and side yards under the Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance. Corner lots and p...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake requires all dogs to be under physical restraint (leash or confinement) when off the owners property under City Code Chapter 10. Leash length is n...
See how Chesapeake's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.