Permitting and Registration

• All STR operators must register their property through the city's Short-Term Residential Rental Registry, established in 201812.
• A short-term residential permit is required for properties rented for more than 10 days annually23. Violators receiving two or more zoning citations cannot apply for a permit for one year23.
• Permits may be revoked for false information, repeated violations, or health and safety risks to guests or neighbors2.

Occupancy Limits

• Occupancy is capped at two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, excluding children under age 3. A maximum of 10 people is allowed per rental23.
• These limits apply to gatherings as well, with stricter rules for events in commercial and mixed-use zones2.

Parking Requirements

• Parking requirements depend on location:
  • In transit areas: 0.25 spaces per bedroom.
  • Outside transit areas: 0.75 spaces per bedroom2.
• Enhanced transit zone properties must meet specific parking ratios or provide off-site parking approved by city officials2.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

• ADUs can be rented as STRs but are limited to 120 days annually. The main dwelling and ADU cannot be rented simultaneously23.

Safety and Neighbor Notifications

• Hosts must maintain smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers2.
• Operators must notify neighbors of their intent to operate an STR and provide guests with a "Good Neighbor Guide" detailing local rules such as quiet hours (11 p.m.–7 a.m.), trash disposal, and parking guidelines23.

Taxes and Records

• STR operators must collect and remit transient lodging taxes monthly unless using an intermediary platform like Airbnb14.
• Booking records must be kept for two years2.

Alexandria enforces these regulations strictly to balance community concerns with the benefits of STRs. Non-compliance can result in fines, permit revocation, or bans on future operations3.