28-Field Regulatory Matrix & Zoning Analysis for Denver, CO
Short-term rentals (STRs) in Denver are heavily restricted. An STR is defined as a rental of a residential dwelling unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days. Crucially, STRs are only permitted in the host's primary residence. A host is defined as the person who is the owner or tenant of the property and who resides in the property as their primary residence (at least 50% of the year).
Tenants may operate an STR only if they have written, notarized permission from the property owner/landlord via a specific affidavit form.
STR licenses in Denver are strictly tied to the individual host and are non-transferable. Upon the sale of a property, the existing STR license immediately expires. The new owner must establish the property as their primary residence before applying for a new license. Turnkey STR acquisitions are not legally viable in this market.
| Risk Vector | Description / Escalation |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Method | Active cross-referencing of address data with Colorado Dept of Revenue & Denver voter registration records. |
| Initial Citation | Up to $999 per violation per day. |
| Severe Penalties | Administrative revocation of dwelling certificate of occupancy and platform delisting orders. |
| Requirement | Rate / Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lodger's Tax | 10.75% | City lodger's tax on taxable lodging. (Typically collected/remitted by platforms). |
| License Fee | $100 / yr | Annual STR license fee to the City of Denver. |
| Application Fee | ~$50 | One-time fee upon initial application. |
| Business License | Varies | General business license and Lodger's Tax ID required before applying. |