Short-Term Rental Rules in Colorado Springs, CO (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term rentals are allowed in Colorado Springs, requiring either an owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied permit. Hosts must follow specific rules for occupancy, parking, and safety, and they need to renew permits annually.
Do you need a permit or license?
To operate a short-term rental in Colorado Springs, you must have a permit [1]. Applications are submitted electronically, and city staff review them within 10 business days [1]. The annual permit fee is $119 [2]. Each unit requires a separate permit if multiple units are on the same property [1]. Permits are valid for one year and must be renewed without a lapse [1].
Taxes
A sales tax license is required unless the property is listed exclusively on Airbnb or VRBO, which handle tax collection [2].
Limits and restrictions
Owner-occupied rentals must be the owner's primary residence [1]. Non-owner-occupied rentals are not allowed in single-family zoning districts unless grandfathered [1]. Properties with an ADU cannot have an STR permit after June 30, 2025 [1]. Each short-term rental can have a maximum of two occupants per bedroom, plus two additional people, up to 15 total occupants [2].
Penalties
Failure to renew your permit prior to the date of expiration may result in a Code Enforcement notice and if Non-Owner Occupied, the potential forfeiture of your established permit. There is no grace period for late applications [1].
How to apply
Applications require proof of primary residence, a signed affidavit, proof of listing on a hosting platform, and liability insurance of at least $500,000 [2]. Documents must be submitted through the city's electronic system [1].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit Cost | $119 annually [2] |
| Permit Validity | 1 year [1] |
| Insurance Requirement | $500,000 liability [2] |
| Occupancy Limit | 2 occupants per bedroom, plus 2, max 15 [2] |
FAQ
Are there zoning restrictions for short-term rentals?
Non-owner occupied rentals are not allowed in certain zoning districts, such as single-family zones, unless grandfathered [1].
What happens if I miss renewing the permit?
Failure to renew your permit prior to the date of expiration may result in a Code Enforcement notice and if Non-Owner Occupied, the potential forfeiture of your established permit [1].
Do I need a sales tax license for Airbnb or VRBO listings?
A sales tax license is not required for rentals posted exclusively on Airbnb or VRBO [2].
Running a rental in Colorado Springs
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Short Term Rentals | City of Colorado Springs (official)
- COLORADO SPRINGS PLANNING (official)
Last checked: October 12, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.