Gulf Shores

Unincorporated Baldwin County does not have a dedicated short-term rental permit or restrictive ordinance. Hosts are primarily governed by the Alabama Lodging Tax (7% total for most unincorporated areas) and must ensure their property is not within an incorporated city with its own rules.

Short-term rentals in Huntsville are regulated as motels under the city's zoning code and are generally prohibited in most residential districts. To operate legally, hosts must secure zoning approval, obtain a city business license, and remit a 9% lodging tax plus a $2 per room, per night surcharge.

Montgomery requires short-term rental operators to obtain a standard city business license and remit state, city, and county lodging taxes, though a dedicated STR ordinance is currently under development.

Short-term rentals in the City of Auburn are classified as either 'Homestays' (primary residence) or 'Short-Term Non-Primary Rentals' (STNPR). All operators must obtain a zoning permit and a city business license, and are subject to a 7% local lodging tax. STNPRs are limited to operating 240 days per calendar year, while Homestays have varying occupancy limits depending on owner presence and zoning district.