‹ Kentucky

Lexington short-term rental rules (2026)

Kentucky · United States
Restricted
These rules apply inside Lexington city limits only. Properties outside them follow county or neighboring-town rules.
Rules last checked  ·  Region: US

Market overview

RESTRICTEDStays under 30 nights

Allowed, with material limits.

61 total citations issued since program began; $78,125 in fines levied. $59,125 remains unpaid as of July 1, 2026.

Why do places restrict rentals?

Property eligibility: Not assessed A market overview can't tell whether a specific home qualifies (zoning, permits, HOA).

License
Required
Tax on stays
15.5%
total, on our records
Night cap
None
Fines
Up to $78,125

Work for Lexington? Claim this page to confirm or correct the rules.

ALLOWEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Stays of 30 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals.

Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

Not legal advice. The legal framework, notes and sources are in the full report.

Browse all 7 STR regulations in Kentucky → Browse all 944 STR regulations in United States →

The full Lexington rules

12 rules on record for Lexington, 5 of them from government sources. Every rule traced to its official source. How we research

Free account includes full rules for one place, with change alerts. Full report $39 · See a sample. For a lender or insurer: rules summary for one address, $29, free with the report. Already have an account? Sign in.

Source: Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Revenue (lexingtonky.gov, official), checked 6 Nov 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Lexington?

Yes, with material limits. 61 total citations issued since program began; $78,125 in fines levied. $59,125 remains unpaid as of July 1, 2026.

Do you need a permit for a short-term rental in Lexington?

Yes, a license or registration is required.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Lexington?

15.5% in total on stays, on our records.

Is there a limit on rental nights in Lexington?

No night cap is on record.

What are the penalties in Lexington?

Fines of up to $78,125 are on record.

Can I rent for longer stays in Lexington?

Stays of 30 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals. Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

When were the Lexington rules last checked?

We last checked the short-term rental rules for Lexington on 6 Nov 2026.

Search 5,120+ places

LawfulStay tracks short-term rental rules for 5,120+ places, with every rule traced to its official source.

Search the database →