Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Lafayette, LA?

Short-term rentals are partially banned in Lafayette, Louisiana. As of October 6, 2024, STRs are prohibited in Residential Single-Family (RS) zoning districts, which account for approximately 75% of the city's residential area. However, STRs are still permitted in other zoning districts with proper licensing and compliance with city regulations.

The city has implemented strict zoning-based regulations that significantly limit where STRs can operate, making it one of the more restrictive STR markets in Louisiana.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Lafayette

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

• Check the Lafayette Zoning Map to confirm your property is not in an RS (Residential Single-Family) zone
• STRs are prohibited in RS, PI-L, and PI-H zoning districts
• STRs are permitted in RM (Residential Mixed) and commercial/mixed-use districts

Step 2: Apply for STR License

• Submit application to Community Development & Planning (CD&P) department
• Pay $100 non-refundable, non-transferable license fee
• License is valid for one calendar year and requires annual renewal

Step 3: Designate a Short-Term Rental Agent

• Appoint an agent available 24/7 to address problems and complaints
• Agent must respond within 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the issue
• Maintain detailed complaint logs

Step 4: Meet Operational Requirements

• Post required signage inside the rental with agent contact information and license number
• Ensure entire structure rental (no room-by-room rentals to different parties)
• Implement minimum one-night stay requirement

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Required Licenses and Permits:

1. STR License from CD&P Department

   • $100 annual fee
   • Valid for one calendar year
   • Required application by December 31, 2023 for existing operators

2. Sales and Use Tax License (for City of Lafayette operations)

Required Documentation:

• Proof of compliance with zoning regulations
• Short-Term Rental Agent designation and contact information
• Internal signage displaying:
  • STR Agent's 24/7 contact information (mailing address, mobile phone with texting, email)
  • Property street address
  • Copy of STR license

Operational Guidelines:

• Minimum Stay: One night
• Occupancy Limits: In RM zones, maximum 4 guest rooms with maximum 2 persons per room
• Rental Structure: Must rent entire dwelling/dwelling unit to single party
• Agent Response Requirements: Strict 24/7 availability with specific response times
• Complaint Logs: Must be maintained by designated agent

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Zoning Restrictions:

• Prohibited Zones: RS (Residential Single-Family), PI-L, PI-H
• Permitted Zones: All other zoning districts where marked "P*" in Table 89-21-2
• Special Restrictions in RM Zones:
  • No receptions or private parties/events for fee
  • Maximum 4 guest rooms
  • Maximum 2 persons per guest room

Compliance and Enforcement:

• License Transferability: STR licenses are not transferable and create no vested rights
• Revocation Consequences: License revocation prohibits reissuance for 2 years for that licensee and property
• Existing Operations: Had to apply for licenses by December 31, 2023, or cease operations
• Non-conforming Use: Limited grandfathering provisions for pre-existing STRs in certain zones (not applicable to RS zones)

Appeal Process:

• Appeals of CD&P Director decisions must be filed with the 15th Judicial District Court

Contact Information for Local STR Authority

Community Development & Planning Department (CD&P)

• Authority: CD&P Director has authority to issue fines, suspend, or revoke STR licenses
• Website: https://www.lafayettela.gov
• STR Application: Available online through LCG website
• Zoning Map: Lafayette Zoning Map

Note: Specific phone numbers and email addresses for the CD&P department were not provided in the source materials. Investors should contact the main city number or visit the website for current contact information.

Important Links to Source Pages

1. Official City Ordinance Documents: https://apps.lafayettela.gov/OBCouncil/api/Document/2287067/

2. Current STR News and Updates: https://thecurrentla.com/2024/lafayette-short-term-rentals-shut-down-as-festival-season-ramp-ups/

3. STR Rules Overview: https://thecurrentla.com/2024/lafayettes-new-str-rules-are-coming-online-what-are-they/

4. Municipal Code Reference: https://library.municode.com/la/lafayette_city-parish_consolidated_government/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH73SHRMRE_ARTIGELIOP_DIV3SHRMREOP_S73-27VISURELI

5. Community Engagement Portal: https://lafayette-listens.com/str

Critical Investment Considerations

High-Risk Market: Lafayette's STR market is highly restrictive with approximately 75% of residential areas completely off-limits to STR operations. The city has taken a strong stance against STRs in residential neighborhoods, and enforcement appears to be active.

Limited Expansion Opportunities: The zoning-based restrictions severely limit where new STR investments can be made, concentrating opportunities in mixed-use and commercial districts only.

Grandfathering Limitations: Unlike many municipalities, Lafayette provided no grandfathering protection for existing STRs in RS zones, requiring immediate cessation of operations as of October 6, 2024.

Enforcement Structure: The city has established clear enforcement mechanisms through the CD&P Director, though specific fine amounts are not detailed in the ordinances, creating some uncertainty about penalty severity.

Potential investors should carefully verify zoning compliance and consider the restricted nature of this market before making investment decisions in Lafayette, Louisiana.