Is Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals Legal in Vermont? (2026)
Yes — Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Vermont as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: Effective August 1, 2024, a new 3% surcharge was added to short-term rental rents on top of the existing 9% rooms tax. In early 2026, towns like Stowe were moving to prohibit new short-term rental registrations to manage housing stock.
Quick Answer
Short-term rentals are legal in Vermont. Effective August 1, 2024, a new 3% surcharge was added to short-term rental rents on top of the existing 9% rooms tax. Hosts should verify local ordinances and tax requirements before listing.
What the Law Says
Vermont state law requires the collection of a 9% Meals and Rooms Tax and a new 3% surcharge (as of Aug 2024). Properties with more than two STR units must be licensed by the Department of Health. Municipalities can also enact their own zoning regulations.
— Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 32, § 9301
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State-Level Rules | Legal; check local ordinances |
| Local Permit Requirements | Legal; may need business license |
| Violation Penalties | Must collect and remit applicable lodging/occupancy taxes. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Effective August 1, 2024, a new 3% surcharge was added to short-term rental rents on top of the existing 9% rooms tax. In early 2026, towns like Stowe were moving to prohibit new short-term rental registrations to manage housing stock.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is a mix of state and local efforts. The state Department of Taxes requires all operators to have a Meals and Rooms Tax account number and display it on listings. Local municipalities, like Burlington and Stowe, have their own registration and enforcement mechanisms.
A common violation is failing to obtain and display the state Meals and Rooms Tax account number in advertisements. Another is not complying with state fire and life safety codes, which are a focus of state regulation.
Local Exceptions
State law sets the baseline. These cities or counties have additional rules that may differ:
Bottom Line
Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Vermont. You can operating a short-term rental without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Vermont vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, operating a short-term rental is fully legal in 35 states, restricted in 15, and illegal in 0. Vermont falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is operating a short-term rental legal in Vermont?
Do you need a permit to run an Airbnb in Vermont?
Does the law on operating a short-term rental change at the Vermont border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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