Welcome to Virginia Beach

In Virginia Beach, before operating a property as a short-term rental, property owners must obtain an annual zoning permit prior to accepting reservations. Dedicated staff is available to help you navigate the application process.

Virginia Beach boasts 38 miles of coastline and welcomes more than 14 million visitors to the shore every year.

Operating a Short-Term Rental

A short-term rental is a dwelling unit intended for transient occupancy for less than 30 consecutive days. All eligible short-term rentals are required to maintain an annual zoning permit to advertise and operate in the City of Virginia Beach.  Permitting is based on eligibility and can differ depending on location or status of the property prior to the zoning ordinance being implemented. All permits must be issued to the registered property owner and in accordance the number of bedrooms listed with the real estate assessor’s office. 

Properties Eligible for Permitting

Permitting of short-term rentals is based on eligibility and can differ depending on location or status of the property prior to the zoning ordinance being implemented. All permits must be issued to the registered property owner and in accordance with the number of bedrooms listed with the real estate assessor’s office. 

Find Out if a Property Is in an Eligible District

To determine if a property is within an eligible district, verify by using this map.

  • Permits
    • Building Permits Commercial Building Permits Residential Building Permits Conditional Use Permits Fence/Wall Permits Moving & Hauling Permits Peddler Permits Right of Way Permits Short-Term Rentals Proposed STR Overlay FAQs Rules Understanding the Application Process Document Center Signs Trades Permits Waterfront/Wetlands