Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Eufaula, AL?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Eufaula, Alabama, but with specific restrictions and requirements. The City of Eufaula adopted Ordinance 2023-6 on December 18, 2023, which establishes a regulatory framework for short-term rentals. STRs are permitted only upon appeal and approval by the Board of Adjustments in all zoning districts except M-1 and M-2 (Light Industrial and Heavy Industrial), where they are prohibited. The regulatory environment is considered relatively low compared to other markets, though compliance requirements do apply.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Eufaula

Starting a short-term rental business in Eufaula requires following a specific two-step process:

Step 1: Board of Adjustments Approval

1. Submit a special exception application to the Board of Adjustments for use as a short-term rental
2. Prepare documentation demonstrating compliance with zoning requirements and minimum standards
3. Attend the Board of Adjustments hearing to present your case
4. Obtain approval from the Board before proceeding to permit application

Step 2: Zoning Administrator Permit

1. Provide a list of rental platforms (VRBO, Airbnb, etc.) to be used for advertising
2. Demonstrate compliance with all terms of Ordinance 2023-6
3. Pay the $150 permit fee
4. Receive your Short-Term Rental permit from the Zoning Administrator

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Zoning and Use Approval

• Special Exception Application to Board of Adjustments
• Property documentation showing permanent structure status
• Proof of compliance with building and fire codes

Safety and Compliance Requirements

The property must include:

• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Operable egress windows in sleeping areas
• Proper hand and guardrails
• GFCI protection where required by current National Electrical Code
• Fire extinguisher
• Properly displayed 9-1-1 address

Business Licensing

• City of Eufaula business license
• Barbour County business license
• State of Alabama business registration
• Short-Term Rental permit ($150 fee)

Platform Registration

• List of rental platforms to be used for advertising (submitted to Zoning Administrator)

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Zoning Districts

• Permitted districts: All districts except M-1 and M-2
• Prohibited districts: M-1 (Light Industrial) and M-2 (Heavy Industrial)

Occupancy and Length of Stay

• Maximum stay: 30 consecutive days or fewer
• Minimum stay: 24 hours (no sub-daily rentals)
• Definition: Property leased in its entirety as overnight accommodations for any party for 30 or fewer consecutive days in return for a fee

Parking Requirements

• Minimum parking: One off-street parking space for every two adults counting toward occupancy limit
• Exceptions: Central Business District may have modified requirements
• Options: Driveways, on-property parking areas, or approved on-street parking when off-street cannot be accommodated

Operational Restrictions

• Lodging only: No commercial events (concerts, weddings, large gatherings)
• No signage: On-site promotion or identification signs prohibited
• Noise compliance: Must adhere to Section 66-446 of Code of Ordinances (unreasonable noise prohibition)
• Primary use consideration: Board evaluates whether STR is primary or accessory use

Safety and Building Requirements

• Must meet all applicable building and fire codes
• Permanent structure requirement
• Safety equipment specifications as outlined above

Board of Adjustments Considerations

The Board evaluates:

• Whether property is permanently occupied and leased in entirety for 30+ consecutive nights
• Whether STR is primary or accessory use
• Adequacy of off-street parking
• Potential impact caps (Board may establish annual night limits)

Enforcement and Compliance

• Complaint process: More than two verified complaints within 12 months triggers action
• Revocation authority: Zoning Administrator can revoke permit; Board of Adjustments has ultimate revocation authority
• Appeal process: Administrative revocation can be appealed to Board of Adjustments

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact:

• Organization: City of Eufaula - Zoning Department
• Address: 205 E Barbour Street, Eufaula, AL 36027
• Phone: 334-688-2000
• Website: www.eufaulaalabama.com

Key Departments:

• Zoning Administrator: Handles permit applications and compliance
• Board of Adjustments: Handles special exception approvals and appeals
• Revenue/Business License Department: Handles business licensing

Source Links

• Eufaula Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2023-6
• Approved Ordinance 2023-6 - December 18, 2023
• City News - Ordinance 2023-6 Adoption
• 2022 Temporary Moratorium Resolution
• AirROI Market Analysis for Eufaula

Important Note: This guide is based on current regulations as of the content provided. STR regulations can change, and investors should verify current requirements with the City of Eufaula before making investment decisions. The regulatory framework is relatively new (adopted December 2023), so ongoing monitoring of enforcement practices and potential amendments is advisable.