Estes Park strictly regulates vacation rentals through Chapter 5.20 of the Municipal Code, enforcing a cap on the total number of licenses available in residential zones. Hosts must obtain an annual Vacation Rental Business License, pass a safety inspection, and collect a combined tax rate of approximately 9.7% (including town, county, and state taxes).
To host an Airbnb in Estes Park, you must first check if there is an available license, as the town limits the number of short-term rentals in residential areas. You'll need to apply for a Vacation Rental Business License through the MUNIRevs portal and pay a $200 annual fee. Your property must pass a safety inspection (checking for things like fire extinguishers and egress windows) and you must have a local contact person available 24/7 to respond to complaints. Be aware that you cannot use an ADU (like a basement apartment or guest house) as a short-term rental, and you must strictly follow the 8-guest maximum rule in residential zones.
Permit Required
Yes
Night Limit
None
Primary Residence
Not Required
Total Tax Rate
9.7%
Disclaimer
Regulatory information is AI-researched for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Learn more about STR regulations and hosting tips.
Regulations Videos
Permit Fee
$200
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Expert advice on STR compliance