LicensedRental

Virginia city rules

Harrisonburg, VA vacation rental rules and taxes

Harrisonburg allows short-term rentals only where the operator lives on the property. A “homestay” is allowed by right for up to 90 nights and 4 guests a year; anything more needs a special use permit from City Council. Every host registers each year ($25). Stays pay 5.3% sales tax plus the city’s 7% lodging tax.

Checked against official sources November 7, 2026
Market
About 150 Airbnb listings
Harrisonburg 154 (AirROI).Source
Registration
$25 a year
Renew between January 1 and March 1.Source
Owner occupancy
Required
The operator must live on the property.Source
By-right homestay
90 nights and 4 guests a year
In a single-family home, duplex, or townhouse; no off-street parking needed.Source
Beyond that
Special use permit, $425 + $30/acre
One-time approval by City Council; one off-street space per bedroom.Source
Taxes
5.3% sales + 7% lodging tax

What to do

  1. Check whether you qualify for a homestay

    Homestays and short-term rentals are allowed in the R-1 to R-8, MX-U, B-1, and U-R districts, and only where the operator lives on the property. A by-right homestay is limited to 90 nights a year and 4 guests and can’t be in an apartment or accessory building. Answer the city’s six eligibility questions to see which path you’re on.Source

    Harrisonburg short-term rentals →

  2. Apply for a special use permit if you need more

    More nights, more guests, an apartment, or an accessory unit needs a short-term rental special use permit ($425 plus $30 per acre), reviewed by the Planning Commission and decided by City Council. Include a property map and a letter describing the guest spaces. Provide one off-street space per bedroom unless the permit says otherwise.Source

  3. Register every year

    Register with Community Development ($25) with proof that you live there, and renew between January 1 and March 1. Get a city business license (after the permit, if you need one) and register for state sales tax if guests pay you directly.Source

  4. Taxes on each stay

    Stays under 90 days owe 5.3% sales tax, and stays under 30 days also owe the local transient occupancy tax. Airbnb collects both on its bookings. If guests pay you directly, file sales tax with Virginia Tax. Harrisonburg’s lodging tax is 7%. For direct bookings, register with the Commissioner of the Revenue and file it there.Source

Inspection checklist

What the inspector looks for, from City of Harrisonburg, Virginia’s published checklist.

  • Bedrooms meet building code egress rulesA basement bedroom may need an egress window.Source
  • Pre-operation form, if City Council requires it

Sources

A plain-language summary to help you prepare, not legal advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the office before you apply. Spot something out of date? Email hello@licensedrental.com.