Columbus, OH
When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it is important for you to understand the laws in your region or city. As a platform and online marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide resources that may help you better understand applicable laws and regulations.
This list is not exhaustive, but it may give you a good start in understanding your local laws. If you have questions, visit the short-term rental homepage or other government agencies directly, or consult a local lawyer or tax professional.
Short-term rental regulations
Anyone who hosts short-term stays (fewer than 30 nights at a time) in Columbus needs a short-term rental permit, which must be renewed annually. You can apply in person or use the dropbox at the Division of Licensing in Columbus to submit an application. For more information, see the city’s short-term rental website.
Long-term stay listings do not need to register if you only host for 30+ nights at a time.
Step 1: Register your listing
You can register as a short-term rental operator in person at the Department of Public Safety in Columbus. When you apply, you will first need to apply and complete a BCI background check, pay the required fee, provide the appropriate documentation, and you’ll receive your permit number the same day. The application fee is $20 and the permit cost is $75 if you host your primary residence, or $150 if you host a non-primary residence (like a vacation home or second home). Permits are good for each calendar year, and will then need to be renewed.
What you’ll need to register
- BCI background check
- Short-term rental application
- Proof of identity
- Two proofs of residency if you’re registering a primary residence:
- Motor vehicle registration
- Tax documents
- Lease copy
- Utility bill
- Proof or documentation of ownership if you’re registering a secondary residence
- Names and addresses of any other hotel, motel, or short-term rental in Columbus that you have any interest in, including but not limited to ownership, licensure, or management
- A notarized affidavit including confirmation that you and your listing are in compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations (a notarized application affirming compliance is sufficient to meet this requirement)
- Note: Notaries will be onsite to assist with this part of your application
- Tax information or consent for the Columbus Tax Department to share tax information with the Licensing Section.
Step 2: Add your registration number to your listing
Once you receive a registration number from the city, add it to your listing page to complete the process.
Building and housing standards
Columbus enforces rules and regulations that specify minimum construction, design, maintenance standards, habitability, health, and safety. Certain regulations applicable to residential and non-residential uses may be relevant to your listing.
Other contracts and rules
As a host, you need to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, including leases, co-op rules, HOA rules, or other rules established by tenant organizations. You should be able to find out more by contacting your housing authority (such as a community council) or landlord. Your lease (or other contract) might also have specific details.
Our commitment to your community
We are committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules impact the short-term rental community.
Other resources to help you Host
- Safety & Airbnb
- Airbnb Resource Center to help you become your best Host
- Columbus area Airbnb Host Facebook Group
- Columbus Code Compliance Office
Airbnb isn’t responsible for the reliability or correctness of the information contained in any links to third party sites (including any links to legislation and regulations).