Vacation Rental License Program

Vacation Rental Licensing in Astoria

Welcome to the City of Astoria’s Vacation Rental Licensing Program. Whether you’re currently operating a vacation rental or thinking of applying, this page will guide you through everything you need to stay in compliance with updated City regulations.

Astoria’s vacation rentals are an important part of our tourism economy—but they also impact local housing availability and neighborhood livability. That’s why the City adopted clear licensing requirements and operational standards under City Code Sections 8.740–8.749 (Ordinance 25-07), balancing visitor access with community values.

Quick Facts

• A license is required for all vacation rentals in Astoria
• A vacation rental is a short-term rental (30 days or less) where the owner does not live on site
• Licenses are valid for up to 2 calendar years and must be renewed to stay active
• There is a cap of 50 licensed vacation rental units across the city (This helps maintain a balance between tourism and long-term housing)
• New applications will be accepted starting early 2026

What is Considered a Vacation Rental in Astoria?

A vacation rental is a dwelling or lodging unit offered to guests for stays of 30 consecutive days or less, and where no owner or manager lives on the property during the rental.

This is not the same as a Home Stay Lodging (HSL), where an owner resides on-site. If you're unsure what category your property falls under, contact us.

Why Do I Need a License?

Licensing helps ensure vacation rentals are safe, legal, and good neighbors. Your license helps:

• Protect guests through fire and life safety inspections
• Minimize nuisance impacts (noise, trash, parking)
• Ensure clear communication between property owners, guests, and the City
• Enforce a cap to preserve long-term housing options
• Ensure proper payment of local room taxes

Who Can Apply Now?

We’re currently accepting applications for existing, pre-approved vacation rentals (i.e., units previously approved or operating before December 7, 2022)
New applications for unlicensed vacation rentals will be accepted starting early 2026

How to Get Your Vacation Rental License

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to do.

1. Prepare Your Materials

You'll need:

• Vacation Rental License Application Packet (PDF)
• Proof of Prior Written Approval
• Site Plan and Parking Plan (showing structures, driveways, parking)
• Floor plan (showing exits and sleeping rooms)
• Proof of compliance with landscaping, lighting, signage, and waste disposal standards (Astoria Development Code Article 3)
• Occupational Tax / Business License Form
• Documentation of compliance with the Transient Room Tax
• Guest Information Sheet (quiet hours, trash/recycling, parking)
• Tsunami Evacuation Map
• Emergency exit/evacuation map for your property

2. Submit Your Application

Submit your completed packet:

• Email: planning@astoria.gov
• Mail or drop-off:
  Community Development Department
  1095 Duane Street
  Astoria, OR 97103

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

3. Prepare for Fire & Life Safety Inspection

Once we receive your complete application, staff will schedule an inspection.

Permit Fees

Payment must accompany your application. Accepted methods: cash, check, or credit card.

Important Rules Every Vacation Rental Must Follow

• Quiet Hours: 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
• Parking: Must align with your submitted and approved site plan
• On-Site Signage: Must include emergency contacts, evacuation map, quiet hours, and site boundaries
• License Number: Must appear on all rental listings (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.)
• Inspections: Required every 2 years for renewal

What About Existing Rentals?

If your vacation rental began operating on or before December 7, 2022, you may qualify as a lawful nonconforming use.

To retain that status, you must submit a license application by December 31, 2025.

What Happens if I Don’t License?

Operating a vacation rental without a valid license may result in enforcement actions, fines, or loss of eligibility to operate in the future. Our goal is to support every operator in becoming and remaining compliant. If you’re unsure about your licensing status, please contact us—we’re here to help.

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help!
If you’re unsure where to start—or just want more details—you can also check out our Vacation Rental FAQs for helpful answers about licensing steps, eligibility, the 50-unit cap, inspections, and more.

Contact Us:
(503) 338-5183
planning@astoria.gov
www.astoria.gov/vacationrentals