Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Breckenridge, CO?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Breckenridge, Colorado, but they are strictly regulated and require licensing. The Town of Breckenridge permits short-term rentals (defined as residential dwelling units available for lease for less than 30 consecutive days) under a comprehensive regulatory framework implemented in 2021-2022. However, new STR licenses are currently limited by zone-specific caps, with waitlists in effect for most areas.

Both the Town of Breckenridge (incorporated areas) and Summit County (unincorporated areas) have separate regulatory systems. Properties within Breckenridge town limits fall under Town jurisdiction, while properties in unincorporated Summit County follow county regulations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Breckenridge

Step 1: Determine Your Property's Jurisdiction and Zone

• Use the Summit County GIS map to determine if your property is within Town of Breckenridge limits or unincorporated Summit County
• For Breckenridge properties, identify your STR zone using the interactive GIS map
• Check current license availability for your zone

Step 2: Verify License Availability

• Review the current license availability and waitlists
• Each zone has specific caps and separate waitlists
• Existing licensed properties are grandfathered in

Step 3: Apply for License or Join Waitlist

• Complete the application process through the Town's licensing system
• If licenses are available in your zone, proceed with full application
• If no licenses available, join the zone-specific waitlist

Step 4: Meet All Requirements

• Ensure compliance with zoning regulations
• Verify HOA restrictions and covenants
• Prepare required documentation and fees

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Town of Breckenridge Requirements:

Primary License:

• Accommodation Unit License (Short-Term Rental License)
• Business and Occupational License Tax (BOLT)

Required Fees:

• BOLT fee: $103 annually
• Regulatory fee: $756 per studio/bedroom per year
• Total annual cost formula: $103 + ($756 × number of bedrooms/studios)

Documentation Required:

• Property ownership verification
• Compliance with safety and building codes
• Insurance documentation
• Contact information for 24/7 local management

Operational Requirements:

• License number must be displayed in all advertising
• 24/7 local contact person required
• Compliance with noise, parking, and occupancy limits
• Good neighbor guidelines adherence

Summit County Requirements (Unincorporated Areas):

License Types:

• Type I: Primary residence with homeowner present (bedroom rentals unlimited when present; entire unit max 60 nights/year)
• Type II: Second homes with 135-night annual limit (resets September 30)
• Type III: Unlimited nights with conditional-use permit (strict requirements)

Additional Requirements:

• Different standards for single-family homes vs. multi-family complexes
• Setback requirements for single-family homes
• HOA verification for multi-family complexes

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Breckenridge Zone System and Caps:

| Zone | Description | Current Licenses (2022) | License Cap | |------|-------------|------------------------|-------------| | Resort Properties | Resort-oriented properties | 188 | No cap | | Zone 1 (Tourism) | Tourism-focused areas | 659 | No cap | | Zone 2 (Downtown Core) | Central downtown area | 222 | 150 | | Zone 3 (Residential) | Single-family neighborhoods | 365 | 150 |

Key Regulations:

Operational Standards:

• Maximum occupancy: Generally 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional
• Minimum stay requirements may vary by property
• Quiet hours enforcement
• Parking restrictions compliance
• Trash and recycling guidelines

Compliance Requirements:

• Annual license renewal required
• Regular inspections possible
• Violation response system
• Good neighbor protocols

Tax Obligations:

• Sales tax collection and remittance required
• Accommodation tax compliance
• Airbnb and VRBO have special collection agreements with the Town

Summit County Regulations:

Zone Classifications:

• Resort Zones: No rental restrictions
• Neighborhood Zones: Tiered licensing system with night limits

Conditional Use Permit Requirements (Type III):

• Single-family homes need 100-foot setbacks
• Lot size determines review process complexity
• Multi-family complexes require HOA approval and amenities

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Town of Breckenridge:

Finance Department (STR Licensing)

• Phone: 970-453-2251
• Address: Town Hall, 150 Ski Hill Road, PO Box 168, Breckenridge, CO 80424
• Website: www.townofbreckenridge.com
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

STR Complaints:

• Town STR Complaint Line: 970-423-5334
• Summit County Non-Emergency Dispatch: 970-668-8600

Summit County (Unincorporated Areas):

Planning Department

• General STR Help: str@summitcountyco.gov
• Phone: 970-668-4186
• Address: 0037 Peak One Drive, Frisco, CO 80443
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

STR Tax Questions:

• Email: tax@summitcountyco.gov
• Phone: 970-453-3439

STR Complaints:

• Online complaint portal

Source Links

• Town of Breckenridge STR Main Page
• Breckenridge STR Licensing Information
• Summit County STR Regulations
• Breckenridge STR Zone Development History
• Summit County STR Interactive Map

The regulatory environment for short-term rentals in Breckenridge and Summit County continues to evolve. Property owners should regularly check with local authorities for the most current regulations, license availability, and compliance requirements. The significant regulatory fees and caps reflect the communities' efforts to balance tourism revenue with local housing needs and neighborhood character preservation.