Short-Term Rental Rules in Raleigh, NC (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Raleigh, NC, but hosts must comply with certain regulations. A short-term rental operator needs a miscellaneous zoning permit and must adhere to rules regarding taxes and usage restrictions.
Do you need a permit or license?
Every short-term rental operator must apply for and obtain a miscellaneous zoning permit from the City of Raleigh [2]. The zoning permit number must be posted conspicuously on all advertisements and on the property itself [2].
Taxes
Short-term rentals are subject to a six-percent room occupancy tax on the gross receipts from the rental [1]. Operators must comply with all applicable state and local tax laws, including occupancy taxes [2].
Limits and restrictions
A short-term rental can be rented for no longer than 30 days [2]. Cooking facilities are not allowed in any bedroom, except in a one-room studio rental with specific limitations on appliances [2]. No exterior advertising is permitted on the property [2]. In residential districts, short-term rentals cannot be used for special events or gatherings [2]. In multi-unit buildings, no more than 25% or two units (whichever is greater) can be used for short-term rentals [2]. Operators must maintain a record of short-term rental lodgers for three years [2].
Penalties
Violations of the short-term rental rules are subject to civil penalties as per section 10.4.2 of the UDO [2]. The City can revoke a permit based on criminal or verified zoning violations [2]. Once revoked, a permit cannot be reissued for the property for 365 days [2].
How to apply
The published rules do not state the application process; ask the city.
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit Required | Miscellaneous zoning permit needed [2]. |
| Tax Rate | Six-percent room occupancy tax [1]. |
| Rental Duration | Maximum of 30 days [2]. |
| Cooking Restrictions | No cooking facilities in bedrooms; exceptions for studios [2]. |
| Advertising | No exterior advertising allowed [2]. |
FAQ
What is the maximum rental period for short-term rentals?
The maximum rental period is 30 days [2].
Are special events allowed at short-term rental properties?
Special events or gatherings are not permitted in residential zoning districts for short-term rentals [2].
How many units in a multi-unit building can be used as short-term rentals?
No more than 25% or two dwelling units, whichever is greater, may be used for short term rental in any single building [2].
Running a rental in Raleigh
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Raleigh-Wake Hospitality Tax: An Intro | Raleighnc.gov (official)
- Sec. 6.4.6. Overnight Lodging | Raleigh UDO (official)
Last checked: October 14, 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.