Short-term rentals in Fairfax County, VA
You need a short-term lodging permit, must live in the home at least 185 days a year, and may rent no more than 60 nights a year to no more than six adults at a time.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Fairfax County before you build.
The details
- Permit from the Zoning Administrator. Only at your permanent residence.High confidence
- 60 nights a year, six adults at once (no limit on children).High confidence
Check a project at your address
SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.
Common questions
- Can I rent my home or ADU by the night in Fairfax County?
- You need a short-term lodging permit, must live in the home at least 185 days a year, and may rent no more than 60 nights a year to no more than six adults at a time.
Sources
- Fairfax County Zoning, Short-term lodging FAQs. Checked 2026-10-21
[Hosts] must obtain a STL Permit, issued by the Zoning Administrator... a minimum of 185 days out of the calendar year [in residence]... no more than 60 nights per calendar year... no more than six adults at any one time.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.