Everything you need to know about obtaining a short-term rental permit in Denver, Colorado — requirements, costs, timeline, and application process.
Updated as of June 2026Required in most cities to legally rent a home or room on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Rules commonly include primary-residence limits, night caps, and occupancy or safety inspections.
Colorado licensing varies significantly by municipality.
As a major metro area, Denver typically charges higher fees for STR Permit applications — expect to pay between $105 and $2100.
Due to higher application volumes, processing times in Denver may run 2-8 weeks or longer. Consider submitting early.
Whether you're starting a new business or expanding into Denver's Denver County area, understanding the local permitting process is essential to operating legally and avoiding fines.
To obtain a short-term rental permit in Denver, CO, you will typically need to provide the following:
You may also need to complete registration with the Colorado Secretary of State at sos.state.co.us.
Before applying, verify your business location in Denver's Denver County is properly zoned for your intended use. Contact the Denver planning department for a zoning verification letter.
Collect all necessary paperwork including proof of ownership or landlord authorization, primary-residence affidavit (where required), life-safety inspection (smoke alarms, egress, extinguishers). Having everything assembled before you start the application avoids the most common rejection reasons.
File your short-term rental permit application with the Denver city clerk or licensing department. Many Colorado municipalities now accept online applications, which can shave a week off processing time.
Submit payment of $105–$2100 (typical range for Denver). Fees may vary based on your business type, size, and the specific license tier you're applying for.
Processing typically takes 2-8 weeks in Denver. As a major metro, expect potential delays during peak permit-renewal seasons.
Navigating Colorado's licensing requirements can be complex. Connect with a licensed business attorney who specializes in Denver regulations.
Get Legal Help Today Or start your LLC online →These are the issues that send applications back for correction in Denver most often. Avoid them up front and you'll typically clear the queue in the 2-8 weeks window.
The typical cost for a Short-Term Rental Permit in Denver ranges from $105 to $2100. Fees vary based on your business type, size, and Denver's specific municipal requirements. Contact the Denver city clerk's office for exact current fees.
Processing time for a Short-Term Rental Permit in Denver is typically 2-8 weeks. Larger cities like Denver may experience longer wait times due to higher application volumes.
To apply for a Short-Term Rental Permit in Denver, you'll generally need: Proof of ownership or landlord authorization, Primary-residence affidavit (where required), Life-safety inspection (smoke alarms, egress, extinguishers), Liability insurance of at least $500,000, Local lodging tax registration. You may also need to register with the Colorado Secretary of State. Contact Denver's licensing department for the complete checklist.
Yes, a Short-Term Rental Permit in Denver requires annual renewal. Mark your calendar — most Colorado municipalities send renewal notices 30-60 days before expiration.
You can apply for a Short-Term Rental Permit through the Denver city government offices, typically the city clerk or licensing department. For state-level requirements, visit sos.state.co.us. Many Colorado cities now offer online application portals.
The information on this page is sourced from state and federal agencies. Always confirm current fees and requirements directly with the issuing authority before filing:
Most short-term rental permit holders in Denver need one or more of the following permits as well:
Same license, different jurisdictions. Costs and timelines vary noticeably by city — these are the nearest comparables to Denver: