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Is Airbnb legal in Richmond, Virginia?

Investors are shut out; only resident owners qualify. Richmond requires STR operators to live in the property at least 185 days a year, which rules out non-owner-occupant investors in residential districts. The biennial permit costs $600 and requires an inspection plus a city business license. Planners have discussed keeping the owner-occupancy rule in residential areas.

Showing the researched rules for Richmond, VA below. Type your Richmond address to jump to the verdict.

Not allowed

Investors are shut out; only resident owners qualify

Richmond requires STR operators to live in the property at least 185 days a year, which rules out non-owner-occupant investors in residential districts. The biennial permit costs $600 and requires an inspection plus a city business license. Planners have discussed keeping the owner-occupancy rule in residential areas.

Permit and costs

Permit
Short-Term Rental Permit
Issued by
City of Richmond, Zoning Administration
Cost
$600 / 2 years
Renewal
Every two years

Key limits

Owner-occupancy
must live in the property 185+ days per year
Inspection
safety inspection before Certificate of Zoning Compliance
Business license
valid Richmond business license also required
Definition
stays under 30 consecutive days

Taxes

City transient occupancy tax
applies; confirm current rate with the city

Registration checklist

  1. 1
    Confirm the address is eligible
    Check the property's zoning and confirm the owner-occupancy rule in the city's zoning system.
  2. 2
    Apply through the permit portal
    File the STR application online; the city invoices the $600 fee after review.
  3. 3
    Pass inspection
    Complete the property inspection and obtain the Certificate of Zoning Compliance.

What could change this verdict

Your HOA
HOA rules can further restrict or ban STRs in residential neighborhoods.
Fee doubled
The city raised the biennial permit from $300 to $600; older guides quote the old number.

Sources

BNBCalc Richmond guide · Richmond BizSense on updated rules

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.