Short-term rental permit rules in Boulder County, CO — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Yes. Since March 5, 2024, no one may operate a short-term or vacation rental in unincorporated Boulder County without a county-issued Short-Term Rental License or Vacation Rental License under Ordinance 2023-02.
Ordinance 2023-02 requires a local license from Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting for any short-term or vacation rental in the unincorporated county. Short-Term Rentals (primary residence, host present or absent up to 45 nights/year) are allowed in all zone districts; Vacation Rentals (whole home, owner absent) are limited to Forestry and Mountain Institutional zones. Cities such as Boulder, Longmont, and Louisville set their own rules. Deed-restricted affordable-housing units are ineligible. Only one license of any type may be issued per person or associated legal entity.
Operating without a license is a violation; each day is a separate offense. Minor offenses: $150, $500, then $1,000; major offenses: $750, then $1,000 plus one-year suspension. Director may suspend or revoke.
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