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Is Airbnb legal in Gulf Shores, Alabama?

Legal with a city rental license and business license. Gulf Shores requires both a rental license and a business license for each short-term rental property. The rental fee is $45 per property, and the business license fee is based on gross receipts with a $100 minimum. Licenses renew each January 1, and the Fire Marshal inspects each property every three years.

Showing the researched rules for Gulf Shores, AL below. Type your Gulf Shores address to jump to the verdict.

Legal with permit

Legal with a city rental license and business license

Gulf Shores requires both a rental license and a business license for each short-term rental property. The rental fee is $45 per property, and the business license fee is based on gross receipts with a $100 minimum. Licenses renew each January 1, and the Fire Marshal inspects each property every three years.

Permit and costs

Permit
Rental License and Business License
Issued by
City of Gulf Shores
Cost
$45 rental fee plus gross-receipts-based business license (min $100)
Renewal
Annual, by January 1

Key limits

Night cap
None
Inspections
Fire Marshal safety inspection every 3 years
Local contact
Local emergency contact information required on file
Per-property license
Each rental property needs its own license

Taxes

State lodging tax
4%
City and county lodging taxes
Collected by the city and Baldwin County, check current rates

Registration checklist

  1. 1
    Apply for both licenses
    File the business license application for rental property with a photo ID and proof of ownership.
  2. 2
    Pass the safety inspection
    Install smoke detectors and extinguishers and complete the Fire Marshal inspection cycle.
  3. 3
    Register for lodging taxes
    Register with the Alabama Department of Revenue and Baldwin County for state and local lodging taxes.

What could change this verdict

Your HOA
Condo complexes set their own rental policies that can be stricter than the city's.
Renew early
Licenses are delinquent after January 31, and penalties apply.

Sources

STR Profit Map Gulf Shores regulations

Rules researched October 2026. They change, so verify with the city before you buy.

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Verify before you buy. Rules change often and vary by zoning, HOA, and building type. This is a research starting point, not legal advice. Always confirm with the city's planning or business-license office before signing anything.