Alexandria, Virginia

When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it is important for you to understand the laws in your region or city. As a platform and online marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide resources that may help you better understand applicable laws and regulations. This list is not exhaustive, but it may give you a good start in understanding your local laws. If you have questions, visit the short-term rental homepage or other government agencies directly, or consult a local lawyer or tax professional.

Short-term rental regulations

The City of Alexandria requires that Hosts register their short-term rental with the Department of Finance within 30 days of the property being offered for rental. This can be done via Alexandria’s free registration process.

Renewals

The City of Alexandria Code Section 3-2-152 requires the operator of each short-term residential property to register with the Department of Finance on an annual basis. Please complete the online registry, reporting each platform you use to advertise your property. All property owners and property managers must register and complete the annual registration.

Taxes

• Short-term rental properties are subject to the following taxes:
  • State and local Sales Taxes totaling 6% must be collected from the renter and remitted by the operator to the Virginia Department of Taxation.
  • Regional and local Transient Lodging Taxes of 9.5% plus $1.25 per room per night must be collected from the renter and remitted by the operator to the City of Alexandria for any rental that can lodge four or more persons at any one time .
  • The operator must obtain a Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) if their gross revenue is greater than $10,000 annually, and they rent more than four separate dwelling units (each having cooking facilities). A BPOL license is only required if they meet these two conditions.
• Short-term rental properties do not require zoning or permitting approvals solely on that basis, but any normal zoning or permitting provisions (e.g. maximum occupancy, construction permits) would still apply.

Other contracts and rules

It's also important to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable.

Our commitment to your community

We are committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules impact the community. We will continue to advocate for changes that will enable people to rent out their homes.