Washington, DC permits short-term rentals citywide under a conditional licensing framework governed by the Short-Term Rental Regulation Act of 2018. Hosts must obtain a license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), and the property must be the host's primary residence (eligible for the Homestead Tax Deduction). Investment properties and those owned by corporations or LLCs are not eligible. There are two license types: a Short-Term Rental license (host present, no annual limit on nights, each stay up to 30 nights) and a Vacation Rental license (host absent, capped at 90 nights per year cumulative, each stay up to 30 nights). The 90-night vacation rental cap can be exempted for work travel or medical reasons. The license costs $99 for two years and requires $250,000 in liability insurance, a Certificate of Clean Hands from the DC Office of Tax and Revenue, and self-certification of housing code compliance. Occupancy is limited to 8 guests or 2 per bedroom, whichever is greater. Hosts in condos, co-ops, or HOAs must attest that their governing documents permit STR operation. No zoning restrictions apply; STRs are allowed in any zone as long as the host is properly licensed.
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Washington is a high-enforcement market - fines reach $1,000 per violation
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Legislative Activity
Short-Term Rental Regulation Amendment Act of 2026
The Short-Term Rental Regulation Amendment Act of 2026 was introduced by Chairman Mendelson at the request of the Mayor on 3/13/2026.
Washington is actively enforced and fines reach $1,000 per violation.
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Washington, DC Regulations Guide
Washington, DC permits short-term rentals citywide under a conditional licensing framework governed by the Short-Term Rental Regulation Act of 2018. Hosts must obtain a license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), and the property must be the host's primary residence (eligible for the Homestead Tax Deduction). Investment properties and those owned by corporations or LLCs are not eligible. There are two license types: a Short-Term Rental license (host present, no annual limit on nights, each stay up to 30 nights) and a Vacation Rental license (host absent, capped at 90 nights per year cumulative, each stay up to 30 nights). The 90-night vacation rental cap can be exempted for work travel or medical reasons. The license costs $99 for two years and requires $250,000 in liability insurance, a Certificate of Clean Hands from the DC Office of Tax and Revenue, and self-certification of housing code compliance. Occupancy is limited to 8 guests or 2 per bedroom, whichever is greater. Hosts in condos, co-ops, or HOAs must attest that their governing documents permit STR operation. No zoning restrictions apply; STRs are allowed in any zone as long as the host is properly licensed.
Licensing and Permits
Washington requires hosts to obtain an STR license or permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
Enforcement
Washington has high enforcement of STR regulations. Operating without proper licensing or failing to comply with local regulations can result in citations, fines, and potential loss of your permit.
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Tax rates, platform collection details, occupancy limits, operational requirements, and more.
Compiled from 10 official government sources and continuously monitored for changes. Always verify current requirements with your local municipality before making investment or operational decisions.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local municipality before making investment or operational decisions.
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