Thinking about offering your Snowmass Village home for nightly or weekly stays? You’re not alone. The right short-term rental permit can protect your investment, keep neighbors happy, and help you operate with confidence. In this guide, you’ll learn what to check before you apply, how to navigate the permit process, and what to expect once you are up and running. Let’s dive in.
Who needs a Snowmass STR permit
Short-term or transient stays typically require a Town permit before you advertise or host guests. That includes whole-home rentals and condominiums. If your property is part of an HOA or a condominium association, private rules may be stricter than Town rules. You must follow both.
Some property types may be ineligible, such as deed-restricted or employee housing. Hosted rentals and non-hosted whole-home rentals can have different standards. Because rules change, confirm the latest Town code sections that govern short-term rentals and business licensing before you proceed.
Quick eligibility checks
Before you spend time on an application, work through this checklist:
- Confirm your zoning allows short-term rental use and whether any overlay district applies.
- Review your deed and HOA covenants for any prohibition or approval requirements.
- Identify a 24/7 local contact who can respond quickly to guest issues and Town inquiries.
- Gather proof of ownership and any documents that show whether the property is deed restricted.
- Decide how you will handle parking, trash, snow and ice, and noise compliance.
Zoning and location considerations
Where your property sits in Snowmass Village matters. Different zones can carry different standards for STRs. Some locations may have parking limits, signage rules, or seasonal considerations. If you are in or near a resort or village core, additional standards may apply.
Ask the Town to confirm your zoning designation, any overlay districts, and whether a zoning verification letter is needed for your application. This step helps you avoid delays and ensures your operating plan matches local expectations.
Safety and occupancy basics
Safety and guest capacity are central to approval and ongoing compliance. Expect to verify each item below with the Town and, where required, during inspection:
- Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in required locations.
- A portable fire extinguisher accessible on each level or near the kitchen.
- Clear emergency egress and posted emergency instructions for guests.
- Visible address and unit identification for first responders.
- Posted house rules, quiet hours, parking guidance, and maximum occupancy inside the unit.
Maximum occupancy is typically calculated by a Town formula. Confirm the exact method for your property type before you advertise.
Step-by-step permit process
Use this framework to prepare and apply efficiently:
- Pre-application research
- Verify zoning, HOA rules, and any overlay standards.
- Review the Town’s STR checklist or application packet for current requirements.
- Choose your 24/7 local contact and draft a guest operations plan.
- Prepare your documents
- Completed STR application form with owner and local contact details.
- Proof of ownership, such as a recorded deed or property tax bill.
- Floor plan noting bedrooms, exits, and proposed occupancy.
- Parking and trash plan that fits neighborhood rules.
- Proof of insurance that addresses short-term rental use.
- Business license or registration if required by the Town.
- Submit and pay fees
- File your application with the Town and pay the associated fees per the current fee schedule.
- Schedule inspections
- Fire or building safety inspections may be required before approval. Be ready to show alarms, extinguishers, posting, and egress.
- Permit issuance
- When issued, you’ll receive a unique permit number. You will likely need to post this number inside the home and include it in all advertising and online listings.
- Renew annually
- Most programs require renewal. Mark your calendar for deadlines and confirm whether re-inspection is part of renewal.
Processing timelines vary based on inspection availability and application completeness. Ask the Town for current timing so you can plan your launch date.
Fees, taxes, and financial compliance
Plan for two buckets of costs: permit-related fees and ongoing taxes.
- Permit and renewal fees: The Town sets application, inspection, and renewal fees. Check the latest fee schedule before you apply.
- State and local taxes: Short-term rental income is usually subject to Colorado sales and lodging taxes, plus Snowmass Village and possibly Pitkin County taxes. Register with the appropriate tax authorities, collect taxes from guests, and remit by each due date.
- Platform collection: Some booking platforms collect and remit certain taxes in some locations. Do not assume they collect everything. Confirm exactly which taxes you remain responsible for.
- Recordkeeping: Keep detailed rental and tax records. Audits do occur, and accurate records protect you.
Operating standards after approval
Once permitted, treat your STR like a hospitality business. Build routines that keep you compliant and proactive.
- Post your permit number and local contact info in the unit and on your listings.
- Keep safety equipment in working order and replace batteries on a schedule.
- Share a concise guest handbook that covers emergency contacts, parking, trash, quiet hours, and house rules.
- Track bookings, income, and taxes in a simple system and store records for the required period.
- Monitor snow and ice, maintain driveways and walkways, and address trash and wildlife risks.
- Update the Town promptly if your local contact or property manager changes.
Complaints, enforcement, and appeals
Neighbor complaints often relate to noise, parking, trash, or occupancy. The Town can issue warnings, fines per day or per violation, and may suspend or revoke permits for repeat or serious issues. Respond quickly to notices, correct the issue, and document your fix. Most programs offer an administrative review or appeal process. If re-inspection is required, schedule it promptly and keep all receipts and correspondence.
Practical owner checklist
Before applying
- Confirm zoning and any overlay requirements with the Town.
- Review HOA rules and obtain written approval if needed.
- Choose your 24/7 local contact and outline response procedures.
Application stage
- Prepare your floor plan, parking plan, and safety device list.
- Set up tax registrations with state and local authorities as required.
- Confirm your insurance covers short-term rental operations.
After approval
- Post permit number, maximum occupancy, and house rules.
- Maintain safety equipment and update your guest handbook.
- Track bookings and taxes and calendar your renewal deadline.
If cited or audited
- Respond by the stated deadline and correct the issue.
- Pay any fines, schedule re-inspection if needed, and keep proof on file.
How we can help
You deserve a smooth, compliant launch and strong seasonal results. Our team pairs local permitting knowledge with hands-on rental operations to help you set standards, avoid surprises, and protect guest experience and revenue. Whether you are tuning a slopeside condo or preparing a single-family retreat, we can help you align zoning, HOA rules, safety, and tax procedures with your investment goals.
Ready to discuss your property and timeline? Connect with The Burggraf Group Will And Sarah Burggraf for a private consultation.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to rent my Snowmass home for short stays?
- If you plan to host transient or short-term stays, you will typically need a Town permit and must follow business licensing rules.
How do I confirm my property is eligible for an STR permit?
- Verify zoning with the Town, review HOA covenants, and confirm you are not in a deed-restricted or employee housing program that limits STR use.
What safety items are usually required before approval?
- Expect working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, a fire extinguisher, posted emergency information, visible address signage, and clear egress.
How is maximum occupancy determined for my rental?
- The Town sets an occupancy formula; confirm the current method for your unit type before listing or publishing guest capacity.
Do I need a local contact or manager in Snowmass Village?
- Yes, most programs require a 24/7 local contact who can respond to issues and Town inquiries promptly.
What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Snowmass Village, CO?
- Plan for Colorado state sales and lodging taxes plus Snowmass Village and possibly Pitkin County taxes, and confirm any platform collection details.
How long does the STR permit process usually take?
- Timelines vary based on inspection schedules and application completeness; ask the Town for current processing estimates.
Are STR permits transferable when I sell the property?
- Many programs require the new owner to apply or notify the Town within a set period; confirm the current Snowmass policy before closing.
What happens if a neighbor files a complaint about my guests?
- The Town may investigate and issue warnings or fines; fix the issue quickly, document the resolution, and comply with any re-inspection or follow-up.
