Norfolk, VA Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)
Short-term rental permit rules in Norfolk, VA, also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration, list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Key Facts
- CUP Required
- Conditional Use Permit
- Registration
- Annual
- State Authority
- VA 15.2-983
- Insurance
- Proof required
- Local Contact
- 24/7 responsible party
Summary
Norfolk requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and annual STR registration. STRs are restricted to specific zoning districts and generally prohibited in single-family residential areas without CUP approval.
§ 15.2-983 . Creation of registry for short-term rental of property. A. As used in this section: "Operator" means the proprietor of any dwelling, lodging, or sleeping accommodations offered as a short-term rental, whether in the capacity of owner, lessee, sublessee, mortgagee in possession, licensee, or any other possessory capacity. "Short-term rental" means the provision of a room or space that is suitable or intended for occupancy for dwelling, sleeping, or lodging purposes, for a period of fewer than 30 consecutive days, in exchange for a charge for the occupancy. B. 1. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, general or special, any locality may, by ordinance, establish a short-term rental registry and require operators within the locality to register annually.
Full Breakdown
Norfolk adopted a comprehensive STR ordinance under authority of VA Code 15.2-983. Operators must apply for a Conditional Use Permit through City Planning, which requires public hearing before Planning Commission and City Council. Annual STR registration with the city is required in addition to the CUP, along with a Norfolk business license and Transient Occupancy Tax registration. Operators must provide proof of property insurance, designate a local responsible party available 24/7, post permit number in all advertisements, and comply with parking, occupancy, and noise standards. CUPs are generally non-transferable and tied to the specific operator.
Violations & Fines
Operating without CUP or registration: civil penalties up to 500 dollars per day, potential cease and desist orders, and denial of future permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I operate an Airbnb in Norfolk without a CUP?
How long does the Norfolk STR CUP process take?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk
How Norfolk compares: Most Airbnb-Friendly Cities in America·Compare Norfolk to another location·View the Virginia short-term rentals overview
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