Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Pahrump, Nevada?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Pahrump, Nevada. However, as of August 4, 2025, all short-term rental operators must comply with comprehensive local regulations established under Pahrump Town Ordinance No. 74. Previously unregulated, these "Air BnB" style establishments now fall under strict licensing, registration, and operational requirements administered by Nye County.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Pahrump

Step-by-Step Process

1. Verify Property Eligibility and Zoning

   • Confirm your property meets residential zoning requirements
   • Ensure compliance with distance restrictions from other STRs and hotels
   • Check that your property type is eligible (permanent residential dwelling units only)

2. Obtain Required Licenses

   • Apply for a Nevada State Business License
   • Secure a Pahrump Town Business License through Nye County
   • Complete the registration process with the Town of Pahrump

3. Complete Registration Requirements

   • Submit all required documentation and fees
   • Pass property inspection and self-assessment checklist
   • Designate a registered local contact within Nye County

4. Set Up Operational Systems

   • Install required safety equipment and security cameras
   • Establish noise management plan and monitoring systems
   • Register for transient lodging tax collection and remittance

5. Notify Neighbors

   • Mail registered local contact information to all properties within 200 feet
   • Provide required documentation to homeowner associations if applicable

Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses

Essential Documentation

• Nevada State Business License (current and maintained)
• Pahrump Town Business License (annual renewal required)
• Registration with Town of Pahrump (annual renewal by specified deadline)
• General Liability Insurance Certificate (minimum $1 million per occurrence)
• Notarized Statement certifying compliance with all requirements
• Property Owner Identification (must be property owner of record per Nye County Assessor)

Supporting Documents

• Proof of age (18+ years) or entity authorization documentation
• Bedroom count verification from Nye County Assessor's Office
• Registered local contact information and Nye County residency proof
• Self-inspection checklist completion
• Engineer's certification letter for septic system capacity (if applicable)
• Evidence of HOA authorization (if located in common-interest community)

Safety Equipment Requirements

• Smoke alarm in each bedroom
• Carbon monoxide detector on each floor
• Illuminated street address number visible from street
• One fire extinguisher per floor
• Evacuation map posted on premises
• Front-facing security camera with 60-day footage retention
• Noise monitoring devices (indoor and outdoor)

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Operational Standards

• Occupancy Limits: Maximum 4 occupants for first bedroom, 2 per additional bedroom, capped at 16 total persons
• Minimum Stay Requirements: 2-night minimum booking (1-night if owner-occupied)
• Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM weekends; 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM weekdays
• Pool/Spa Hours: Same restrictions as quiet hours with required signage
• Registration Limit: Maximum 5 registrations per property owner per Nevada business license

Distance and Location Restrictions

• STR Separation: Must be 1,000+ feet from other registered short-term rentals
• Hotel Separation: Must be 2,500+ feet from hotels (as defined in ordinance)
• Multi-Unit Limitations: Maximum 10% of residential units in multi-unit structures
• Prohibited Structures: RVs, travel trailers, tents, vehicles, and non-permanent structures not permitted

Usage Restrictions

• Permitted Use: Overnight accommodation only
• Prohibited Activities: Weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, gatherings exceeding capacity
• Signage: Exterior signs identifying property as STR are prohibited
• Booking Limitation: Only one booking per registered property at any given time

Compliance Requirements

• Business License Display: Town license number and State license number must appear in all advertisements
• On-Site Posting: Licenses, occupancy limits, local contact info, and quiet hours must be conspicuously posted
• Registered Local Contact: Must be available 24/7, reside in Nye County, respond to complaints within 30 minutes
• Neighbor Notification: Required within 10 days of registration approval and within 5 days of contact changes

Tax Obligations

• Transient Lodging Tax: Must register, collect, and remit monthly regardless of revenue generation
• Record Keeping: Maintain rental records in accordance with Pahrump Town Ordinance No. 32
• Reporting: Submit monthly transient lodging tax returns and quarterly reports (if applicable)

Enforcement and Penalties

• Unregistered Operation: $500 per day fine
• Repeat Violations: Up to $1,000 per day for second violations within 12 months
• Criminal Penalties: Misdemeanor charges possible, up to 6 months jail time and/or $1,000 fine
• Registration Termination: Possible for multiple violations, false information, or accumulated fines exceeding $3,000

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Primary Regulatory Authority

Nye County Department of Planning and Building

• Phone: 775-482-8191
• Email: nyeadmin@nyecountynv.gov
• Address: 101 Radar Road, P.O. Box 153, Tonopah, Nevada 89049

Code Compliance and Enforcement

Nye County Code Compliance

• Phone: 775-751-4249
• Online Reporting: NyeCountyNV.gov/317/Code-Compliance
• Jurisdiction: Handles STR violations and complaints

Business Licensing

Town of Pahrump Business Licensing Department

• Address: 2100 E Walt Williams Drive Suite 100, Pahrump, NV 89048
• Responsibilities: Registration processing, renewals, and license administration

Links to Source Pages

• STR ProfitMap Pahrump Regulations
• Pahrump Town Ordinance No. 74 (Full Text PDF)
• Town of Pahrump Official Notice of Adoption
• Pahrump Valley Times News Coverage
• STRisker Regulatory Analysis

Important Considerations for STR Investors

Market Conditions

According to available data, Pahrump represents a "Growing Market" with positive year-over-year revenue changes in 10 of 12 months. The market saturation index suggests room for growth while the new regulations provide operational clarity.

Grandfathering Provisions

Properties operating as short-term rentals before August 4, 2025, that don't meet current distance requirements may qualify as "legal non-conforming" rentals, subject to specific limitations and automatic termination upon ownership changes or registration lapses.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

The regulations require continuous compliance monitoring, annual renewals, and proactive communication with neighbors and local authorities. Property owners should budget for insurance increases, equipment installations, and potential inspection fees.

Legal and Financial Implications

Given the substantial daily fines for violations and potential criminal penalties, STR investors should consider consulting with legal professionals familiar with Nevada hospitality law and maintaining detailed operational records to demonstrate compliance.

Disclaimer: Regulations are subject to change. Always consult directly with Nye County authorities and potentially seek legal counsel for the most current requirements and specific guidance tailored to your property and business model.