Short-term rental (STR) regulations in Virginia Beach apply to both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied properties. For non-owner-occupied STRs, the following key regulations apply:

1. Permit Requirements: Non-owner-occupied STRs must obtain a Short-Term Rental Zoning Permit, which is mandatory for any dwelling rented out for less than 30 consecutive days12.
2. Location Restrictions: Non-owner-occupied STRs are primarily allowed in:
   • The Sandbridge Special Service District (by-right operation)
   • The Oceanfront Resort (OR) Short-term Rental Overlay District (requires a conditional use permit)
   • Properties grandfathered in (registered before July 1, 2018)
   • Properties with an approved conditional use permit obtained before September 7, 20213
3. Permit Application: To obtain a zoning permit, non-owner-occupied STR operators must:
   • Pay a $200 application fee
   • Submit a life-safety inspection report
   • Provide a structural safety inspection report for properties with exterior stairways, decks, porches, or balconies3
4. Insurance: Liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 is required, and proof must be provided2.
5. Compliance: Non-owner-occupied STRs must adhere to all rules, including occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and accessory structure guidelines2.
6. Renewal: Permits must be renewed annually, and conditional use permits expire after five years3.
7. Taxes: Operators must register with the Commissioner of Revenue and pay transient occupancy taxes3.

It's important to note that if a non-owner-occupied property does not fall into one of the allowed categories, it is prohibited from operating as a short-term rental in Virginia Beach3. Violations can result in fines of up to $200 for the first offense and $500 for subsequent offenses3.