Is Airbnb legal in Saint George?

In St. George, Utah, regulations governing vacation rentals, particularly those listed on platforms like Airbnb, are stringent. Generally, short-term rentals (defined as stays of less than 30 days) are prohibited in single-family residential zones, mobile home zones, agricultural zones, and several other residential areas. However, exceptions exist primarily in planned development zones, which often feature amenities like golf courses, pools, and clubhouses. Notable examples include Sports Village and Las Palmas, both of which are popular for short-term rentals.

A limited exception allows homeowners in residential zones to legally operate short-term rentals if their property is over two acres, they secure written consent from all neighbors within 300 feet, and adhere to specific licensing and parking requirements. However, compliance is low among property owners, and the city actively enforces violations, leading to potential fines for non-compliance.

For potential hosts, it's advised to explore neighboring cities such as Hurricane and Washington, which offer more lenient regulations. While St. George's strict rules can seem burdensome, the city does permit short-term rentals in designated zones, providing a potential pathway for those wanting to enter the vacation rental market be it through licensing, insurance, or observing local regulations and zoning laws. Overall, careful research and adherence to rules are crucial for operating legally in St. George.