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Arlington short-term rental rules (2026)

Virginia · United States
Restricted
Arlington is an unincorporated community, not a city. Check the full address to confirm which rules govern a property.
Rules last checked  ·  Region: US

Market overview

RESTRICTEDStays under 31 nights

Allowed, with material limits.

Arlington allows accessory homestays only where the host, owner or tenant, lives in the home at least 185 days a year.

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
Primary residence
Required
Tax on stays
14.25%
total, on our records
Night cap
None
Fines
Up to $500

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

ALLOWEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Stays of 31 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 18 STR regulations in Virginia → Browse all 944 STR regulations in United States →

The full Arlington rules

16 rules on record for Arlington, 13 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: Arlington County Zoning Division (Community Planning, Housing and Development) (arlingtonva.us, official), checked 6 Nov 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Arlington?

Yes, with material limits. Arlington allows accessory homestays only where the host, owner or tenant, lives in the home at least 185 days a year.

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

Yes, a license or registration is required.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Arlington?

14.25% in total on stays, on our records.

Is there a limit on rental nights in Arlington?

No night cap is on record.

What are the penalties in Arlington?

Fines of up to $500 are on record.

Can I rent for longer stays in Arlington?

Stays of 31 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 Arlington rules last checked?

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

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