2024 Summit County Short-Term Rental Regulations

As the demand for short-term rentals (STRs) continues to grow in Summit County, local governments have implemented various regulations to manage the industry. These rules aim to protect the interests of renters and address community concerns, ensuring a more harmonious coexistence of short-term rentals and local residents.

With each town within Summit County having its unique set of regulations, property owners must be well-versed in the specific requirements of the area where their property is located.

This comprehensive guide offers a snapshot of the STR regulations for each town in Summit County as of 2023, complete with valuable links and resources for a deeper dive into each locality's specific rules and guidelines.

What is a STR?

A short-term rental (STR) is a rental property that offers accommodations for short-term stays, typically one day or less. STRs are increasingly popular in towns and cities across the United States as vacation rentals, offering visitors an alternative to traditional hotels.

Regulations on STRs protect both renters and local residents. Governments can ensure that these rentals operate safely and without disturbing their surrounding communities by having rules in place that address health and safety concerns, fire prevention regulations, insurance requirements, and noise levels.

Plus, many regulations also protect renters by requiring certain standards for the properties they stay in—such as minimum housing quality—and limiting any potential fees or charges that could be imposed on them. These regulations help ensure a more harmonious coexistence between STRs and local residents by balancing their interests.

STR Regulations for Summit County

Updated 2023

Blue River is known for its picturesque mountain settings and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, just past Breckenridge, CO.

STR Policy: Short-term rentals are allowed in Blue River, providing flexibility for property owners. More information and application forms can be found online here.

Contact: Michelle Eddy, Town Administrator | 970-547-0545 | Email Michelle

Breckenridge is a popular ski resort town, attracting visitors year-round for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. This makes it a prime location for short-term rentals.

STR Policy: Short-term rentals are allowed in Breckenridge with specific regulations governing the use and occupancy of these properties. The regions are broken into specific zones with unique regulations and permit requirements, licensing, fees, and other rules here.

Contact: Bela Del Valle, Short-term Rental Code Enforcement | 970-547-3106

Dillon is famous for its stunning lake and mountain vistas, making it a popular tourist destination. Nearby attractions include the Dillon Marina and the Silverthorne Outlets. Short-term rentals, including vacation homes, can be found throughout Dillon.

STR Policy: Short-term rentals are allowed in Dillon with certain restrictions and requirements for operation. Click here to find all the necessary information about Dillon STR regulations.

Contact: STR Department

Email Dillon STR

Frisco offers a mix of small-town charm and outdoor adventure, nestled between major ski resorts.

STR Policy: Frisco has a maximum of 900 STR licenses. There is currently a waitlist for these licenses, and the town has implemented regulations on issuing new STR permits. Click here to find all the necessary information about Frisco's STR regulations.

Contact: Sarah Schwartz, Short-term Rental/Housing Specialist

970-668-2571 | Email Sarah

Keystone, famous for its ski resort, is currently transitioning to becoming its own governed town.

STR Policy: Currently transitioning; licenses are unlimited during the transition period.

Montezuma is a quiet mountain town, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

STR Policy: Rentals Not Allowed Under 180 Days. You can click here to find all the related regulations for Montezuma.

Contact: Sandra Lerner, Town Clerk

Email Sandra

The unincorporated areas of Summit County offer a mix of residential and resort properties.

STR Policy: Unlimited short-term rental (STR) licenses are permitted in Copper Mountain, Keystone, Tiger Run, and 4 O’Clock and Sawmill Subs in Breckenridge within the Resort Overlay Zone (ROZ). However, there is a cap on STRs in all other Neighborhood Residential Overlay Zones (NOZ) based on the basin in the County.

Two permits are available: Type I, exclusively for locals, and Type II, for STRs. While Type I licenses are currently accessible, no new Type II licenses are available for residential areas in unincorporated Summit County, and a waitlist is not available. Click here to learn more about current regulations and restrictions.

Contact: STR Department

970-668-4186 | Email Summit County

Silverthorne is known for its recreational opportunities, scenic riverfront, and business area.

STR Policy: Silverthorne’s general policy regulates short-term rentals based on the number of units in different areas - also referred to as “zones.” In most neighborhoods and Area 1, the cap is set at 10% of the total units.

However, in the Town Core and Riverfront areas (Area 2), the cap is slightly higher at 50% of the units. It's important to note that short-term rentals are not permitted in deed-restricted neighborhoods (Area 3). Currently, permits are available for areas 1 and 2. Click here to learn more.

Contact: Mark Leidel, Community Development Manager

Email Mark

Nearby Colorado STR Regulations

The unincorporated areas of Park County offer rural tranquility and natural beauty.

STR Policy: No Limit but Licenses Required. Click here to learn more about Park County's STR policy.

Contact: STR Department

Email Park County

Alma is a small, scenic town, great for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

STR Policy: Almsa allows for a maximum of 10 Short-Term Rentals (STRs) at a time. However, if all slots are filled, you can join the city’s waitlist for future availability. Click here to learn more.

Contact: Town Staff (call to speak to a representative)

719-836-2712

Fairplay is a historic gold mining town that offers an authentic mountain experience.

STR Policy: The city of Fairplay limits STR permits to 15 within city limits. You can learn more and see an updated list of availability here.

Contact: Janell Sciacca, Town Administrator

719-836-2622

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Lake County offers unspoiled landscapes and outdoor activities but currently has a moratorium on STRs.

STR Policy: STR Moratorium for 2023. Click here to learn more about the current moratorium and updates on when STR availability may open again.

Contact: Building Permits Department

719-486-2875 | Email Lake County

Leadville is a historic mining town, now popular for tourism and outdoor activities.

STR Policy: Short-Term Rentals (STRs) are restricted to 12% of residential properties as per the general policy in the City. The 12% limit corresponds to a maximum of 171 licenses.

Two types of licenses are available: Class 1 for owner-occupied units and Class 2 for non-owner-occupied units. It's important to note that Class 1 permits are not included in the 12% license cap. As of April 10th, the City is in the license renewal phase and has already reached the maximum of 171 permits. However, there is a short waitlist with only 12 people. Click here to learn more and see availability.

Contact: City Clerk

Email City Clerk

Learn More about Summit County Short-Term Rentals with Team Flick

Navigating the varying STR regulations in Summit County can be challenging, but it's crucial for ensuring a smooth rental experience for both owners and guests. By taking the time to look into local laws, you can ensure that your stay is compliant with the city regulations.

For personalized guidance on managing your short-term rental property in Summit County, feel free to contact Team Flick Real Estate. We are here to provide expert advice to make your STR experience hassle-free and profitable.

Contact Team Flick Real Estate for More Information:

Note: The information provided is based on 2023 regulations and is subject to change. Always consult the official resources for the most current information.