Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Westminster, CO?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Westminster, Colorado. The City of Westminster explicitly permits and regulates short-term rentals (STRs) through ordinances approved by City Council on May 22, 2023. The regulations are designed to provide minimum standards while minimizing incompatibility with surrounding residential areas and upholding public health, safety, and welfare.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Westminster

Step 1: Understand the Definition

Westminster defines a Short-Term Rental (STR) as "the use of a residential dwelling unit, or portion thereof, within the City, excluding hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts, for periods of less than 30 days." This includes single-family dwellings, duplexes, townhomes, condominiums, or similar dwellings.

Step 2: Check HOA Restrictions

Before proceeding, verify with your Homeowner Association (HOA) that short-term rentals are permitted in your neighborhood. It is the homeowner's responsibility to adhere to any HOA restrictions regarding STRs.

Step 3: Obtain Required Licenses and Permits

You must obtain multiple licenses:

• Short-term rental license from the City
• Business and sales tax license
• Register for accommodations tax collection

Step 4: Prepare Required Documentation

Gather all necessary documents before applying (detailed in the next section).

Step 5: Submit Applications

Complete the online application process through the City's licensing portal and obtain your business license.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Required Licenses:

1. Short-Term Rental License - Primary permit from the City
2. Business and Sales Tax License - Required for all STR operations
3. Accommodations Tax Registration - For tax collection purposes

Required Documentation:

1. Narrative or Visual of the Dwelling Unit - Specify which portions will be used as the licensed STR premises
2. Copy of Recorded Deed of Trust - For the subject property
3. Signed Affidavit - Certifying life safety compliance with:
   • Operational smoke detectors
   • Carbon monoxide detectors
   • Fire extinguishers
   • Other required life safety equipment per Building, Fire, or Rental Property Maintenance Code

Registration Fees:

• Initial Application: No fee required
• License Duration: 2 years
• Renewal Fee: $200 plus processing fee

Key Restrictions:

• One Property Limit: No applicant may operate more than one licensed STR premises within the City at any time
• Owner Responsibility: Must ensure compliance with all City codes and HOA restrictions

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Westminster City Regulations:

• STRs must comply with Westminster Municipal Code Title V, Chapter 24 (Short-Term Rental Licensing)
• All life safety equipment must be operational and compliant with Building, Fire, and Rental Property Maintenance Codes
• Properties must maintain compatibility with surrounding residential areas
• Accommodations tax must be collected and remitted to the City

Jefferson County Regulations:

Westminster is located in Jefferson County, but the city has its own comprehensive STR regulations that take precedence within city limits.

Colorado State Regulations:

• STR operators must comply with Colorado state tax requirements
• Property must meet Colorado building and safety codes
• Fair housing laws apply to all rental properties

Application Process:

1. Review STR application requirements and collect documentation
2. Apply online through the City's licensing portal at: str.deckard.com/co-jefferson-city_of_westminster
3. Submit complete application with all required documentation
4. City staff reviews application for completeness and approval/denial
5. Apply for business and sales tax license separately
6. Register for accommodations tax collection

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Short-Term Rental Questions and Support:

• Email: str@westminsterco.gov
• Phone: 303-658-2342

Business Licensing:

• Email: licensing@westminsterco.gov
• Phone: 303-658-2161

Sales Tax Licensing and Accommodations Tax:

• Email: salestax@westminsterco.gov
• Phone: 303-658-2065

Westminster City Hall:

• Phone: 303-658-2400
• Address: 4800 West 92nd Avenue, Westminster, CO 80031
• Hours: Monday through Friday: 8 am to 5 pm

STR Complaint Reporting:

• 24/7 STR Complaint Line: 303-867-7363
• Online Complaint Form: complaints-str.deckard.com/westminster-co-str-complaints
• Non-Emergency Dispatch: 303-658-4360

Links to Source Pages

• Primary STR Information: www.westminsterco.gov/Short-TermRentals
• Westminster Municipal Code: library.municode.com/co/westminster/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TITVLIRE_CH24SHRMRELI01
• STR Application Portal: str.deckard.com/co-jefferson-city_of_westminster
• Application Guide: www.westminsterco.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3512
• Business Licensing Information: www.westminsterco.gov/514/Specialty-Licenses
• Accommodations Tax Information: www.westminsterco.gov/513/Business-Sales-Tax-Licenses

Westminster's approach to STR regulation balances property owners' rights with community compatibility, making it a viable market for short-term rental investments when properly licensed and operated in compliance with all applicable regulations.