Astoria Community Development: Short Term Rentals in Astoria

Start here: will the owner live on-site during guest stays?

Yes usually means Home Stay Lodging. No usually means Vacation Rental.

Home Stay Lodging

Owner lives on-site during guest stays.

Best for: renting 1–2 spare bedrooms

A Home Stay Lodging is for owners who rent one or two bedrooms in their primary residence while they are also occupying the home.

License required before advertising or hosting
Owner-occupied primary residence
One or two guest bedrooms
Guest rooms may not include a full kitchen
Fire and life safety inspection required

Apply for Home Stay Lodging

Vacation Rental

Owner does not live on-site during guest stays.

Best for: renting an entire home or unit

A Vacation Rental is a short-term rental where guests occupy the dwelling or lodging unit and the owner is not on-site during the stay.

License required before advertising or hosting
Subject to operational standards
Fire and life safety inspection required
Subject to a citywide license cap

Apply for Vacation Rental

Considering Buying or Modifying a Property?

Approval is not guaranteed. Zoning, parking, occupancy, licensing requirements, inspections, and license availability may affect whether a property can be used as a short-term rental.

Contact the Community Development Department before purchasing or modifying a property based on anticipated short-term rental use.

Before You Apply

Most short-term rental approvals require the following items. Staff can help you confirm which requirements apply to your property.

Confirm zoning eligibility with Planning Division

Prepare a site and parking plan

Prepare a floor plan

Schedule fire/life/safety inspection

Obtain a City business license

After You Apply

Submitting your application does not guarantee approval, City staff will review your application and coordinate the following.

Schedule an inspection

Confirm compliance with City and Development Code

Inform you of necessary revisions

Compliance & Enforcement

It is unlawful to operate a Home Stay Lodging or Vacation Rental without the required City approvals and licenses.

Civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day per violation
Suspension or revocation of licenses
Removal from the Vacation Rental waitlist
Denial of future license applications
Abatement as a public nuisance under City Code

If you are unsure whether your property qualifies for a Home Stay Lodging or Vacation Rental, please contact the Community Development Department before advertising or accepting reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I advertise on Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms?

Yes, but only after the required City approvals and licenses are in place. Listings on rental platforms are still subject to City requirements.

What is the difference between a Home Stay Lodging and a Vacation Rental?

A Home Stay Lodging is owner-occupied and allows one or two guest bedrooms in the owner’s primary residence. A Vacation Rental is a short-term rental where the owner does not live on-site during guest stays.

Do I need a City business license?

Yes. Short-term rental operators must obtain and maintain a City Occupational Tax, commonly referred to as a business license.

Do I need to register for lodging taxes?

Yes. Operators must comply with applicable City, County, and State transient lodging tax requirements. Some platforms may collect and remit taxes, but the operator remains responsible for confirming compliance.

Can I operate a Home Stay Lodging in an ADU?

No. Home Stay Lodging is not permitted within an Accessory Dwelling Unit.

How much parking is required?

Parking requirements depend on the type of short-term rental and the property. Applicants should provide a site and parking plan showing available off-street parking. On-street parking generally does not count toward required off-street parking.

How long is a license valid?

Licenses are valid for a limited term and must be renewed to remain active. Vacation Rental and Home Stay Lodging operators should review their approval documents and renewal deadlines carefully.

Short Term Rentals in Astoria