Virginia Beach Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Virginia Beach,Virginia?

The short term rental regulations in Virginia Beach, Virginia are subject to specific criteria and requirements set by the City Council. Here are the key points based on the provided sources:

• Location Requirements: Properties must be located in designated areas like the Sandbridge Special Service District or the Oceanfront Resort Short-term Rental Overlay District to operate as short-term rentals125.
• Permitting: Property owners must obtain an annual short-term rental zoning permit to legally operate short-term rentals in Virginia Beach125.
• Safety Inspections: Properties must undergo life-safety and structural safety inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards2.
• Liability Insurance: Property owners are required to have liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 and provide proof of insurance to the Zoning Office25.
• Occupancy and Noise Restrictions: Maximum occupancy limits and noise restrictions are in place to maintain community harmony and ensure responsible operation of short-term rentals25.
• Enforcement: The City Council enforces regulations rigorously, with fines of up to $200 for zoning violations and potential revocation of permits for non-compliance12.
• Community Impact: The regulations have sparked mixed reactions in the community, with concerns raised about the impact on the economy, tourism, and property owners135.
• Regulatory Changes: Recent ordinances have introduced new regulations, such as limiting the number of rentals allowed on a lot, requiring rentals to be located at the host’s primary residence, and extending the length of short-term rental certificates3.

In conclusion, the regulations governing short-term rentals in Virginia Beach aim to balance the interests of property owners, residents, and the local economy. Property owners must adhere to specific requirements, obtain permits, and comply with safety and operational standards to operate legally in the city.

The City Council's enforcement efforts and community considerations play a significant role in shaping the short-term rental landscape in Virginia Beach.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Virginia Beach

Starting a short term rental business in Virginia Beach requires careful consideration of the property's location and eligibility. Properties must be located in the Sandbridge Special Service District, the Oceanfront Resort Short-term Rental Overlay District, or be grandfathered in to operate as a short-term rental.

Grandfathered properties must have been registered with the Commissioner of Revenue and paying transient occupancy taxes before 2018.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Virginia Beach

Obtaining an annual short-term rental zoning permit is essential for operating a short term rental in Virginia Beach. Properties in Sandbridge can operate as short-term rentals if they meet the regulations and secure an annual zoning permit.

For properties in the Oceanfront Resort area, a conditional use permit is required before obtaining the annual zoning permit. Grandfathered properties must also comply with the necessary regulations and have the appropriate permits in place.

Required Documents for Virginia Beach Short Term Rentals

Property owners in Virginia Beach must provide several documents to operate a short term rental:

• Life-safety inspection report: This report is conducted annually by the City Zoning Inspector or a certified property management company. It ensures that the property meets safety standards, including fire safety, exits, and emergency lighting.
• Structural safety inspection report: If the property has exterior stairways, decks, porches, or balconies, a licensed design professional must conduct this inspection every three years. This report ensures that the structures are safe and well-maintained.
• Proof of insurance: Property owners must have liability insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000 and provide proof of insurance to the Zoning Office. This insurance protects both the property owner and guests in case of accidents or damage.

Virginia Beach Short Term Rental Taxes

Virginia Beach has implemented new tax regulations for short-term rental properties. Airbnb has supported Virginia’s new tax collection and remittance law, which came into effect on October 1, 2022. This law acknowledges short-term rental businesses as valuable assets in the local community, benefiting those who comply with the rules and simplifying tax processes for local municipalities.

Property owners must register with the Commissioner of Revenue to collect and remit transient occupancy taxes.

Virginia Beach Wide Short Term Rental Rules

Short term rental properties in Virginia Beach must adhere to specific rules to ensure compliance and maintain community harmony:

• Maximum occupancy: The maximum number of individuals allowed per bedroom is three between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. This rule helps maintain a peaceful environment for neighbors and ensures that properties are not overcrowded.
• Liability insurance: Property owners must have liability insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000. This insurance protects both the property owner and guests in case of accidents or damage.
• Noise restrictions: Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. This rule helps maintain a peaceful environment for neighbors and ensures that properties are not used for loud events during late-night hours.
• Accessory structures: Structures like converted detached garages cannot be used or occupied as short-term rentals. This rule helps maintain the character of the neighborhood and ensures that properties are used for their intended purpose.

Does Virginia Beach Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Virginia Beach enforces short-term rental rules rigorously to ensure compliance. The City Council has the authority to revoke permits and grandfather status for non-compliance.

The Zoning Department is responsible for enforcing regulations and can issue fines directly without court involvement. Violations can result in fines of up to $200, with additional penalties for subsequent offenses.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Virginia Beach

To initiate a short term rental business in Virginia Beach, follow these steps:

• Check eligibility: Ensure your property meets the criteria for short-term rental operations.
• Obtain permits: Apply for and secure the necessary permits, such as the annual short-term rental zoning permit.
• Meet safety requirements: Ensure your property passes life-safety and structural safety inspections.
• Get insurance: Obtain liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 and provide proof of insurance.
• Comply with regulations: Adhere to all rules, including occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and accessory structure guidelines.

Who to Contact in Virginia Beach about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning

For inquiries regarding short term rental regulations and zoning in Virginia Beach, reach out to the Zoning Department at (757) 385-4111 or via email at zoning@vbgov.com. The Zoning Department can provide guidance on the application process, permit requirements, and safety inspections.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Virginia Beach on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Airbnb hosts in Virginia Beach have shared diverse opinions on local regulations. Some hosts appreciate the stringent rules as they contribute to maintaining a peaceful community environment. These hosts believe that the regulations help ensure that short-term rentals operate responsibly and do not disrupt the neighborhood.

On the other hand, some hosts find the regulations challenging and potentially restrictive. These hosts may feel that the rules limit their ability to operate a short-term rental business effectively or that the regulations are overly burdensome.

The City Council considers factors like tourism impact when implementing ordinances to strike a balance between the needs of visitors and residents. By engaging with Airbnb hosts on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets, property owners can gain insights into the experiences of others operating short-term rentals in Virginia Beach and better understand the local regulatory environment.

In summary, navigating the regulations for short term rentals in Virginia Beach involves understanding the specific requirements, obtaining permits, and complying with rules to operate legally. The City Council's strict enforcement aims to uphold community standards while supporting the local economy.

For further guidance or insights, contacting the Zoning Department or engaging with Airbnb hosts on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets can provide valuable information and perspectives.