Rules for Short-Term Rentals in Las Vegas, NV

A Comprehensive Guide to Short-Term Rentals for Las Vegas Home Owners

Las Vegas, known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and iconic strip, has become a hotspot for short-term rentals. For residents looking to earn extra income by renting out a portion of their home, or desiring to legally Airbnb in Las Vegas, understanding the city's regulations is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of starting a short-term rental in Las Vegas, covering everything from city regulations to what primary homeowners need to know before venturing into this growing market.

What is a Short-Term Residential Rental?

A Short-term rental is considered the leasing of a residential dwelling for periods of 30 consecutive days or less.

The Las Vegas Municipal Code defines a short-term rental in more detail, as follows in an excerpt from the Short-Term Rental General Information Handout:

A Short-Term Residential Rental means the commercial use, or the making available for commercial use, of a
residential dwelling unit for dwelling, lodging or sleeping purposes, wherein any individual guest rents or
occupies the entire dwelling unit or one or more individual rooms within the unit for a period of less than
thirty-one (31) consecutive calendar days. The term also includes the renting or occupancy of a residential
unit or a room within a residential unit for purposes of transient lodging, as described in Assembly Bill 363 of
the 2021 Session of the Nevada Legislature. A short-term residential rental qualifies as transient lodging and
is included in the definition thereof. The term does not include a community residence, facility for
transitional living for released offenders, or any other facility with dwelling units that is specifically defined
in LVMC, Chapter 19.18.

City Regulations:

Before delving into the details, let's understand the regulatory landscape for short-term rentals in Las Vegas. The city has implemented specific rules and guidelines to manage the growing trend of short-term accommodations. If you're a primary occupier considering renting out your property on a short-term basis, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

One of the key regulations is the requirement for a Short-Term Residential Rental License, which must be obtained by anyone looking to rent out their property.

How do I get a licence for a short-term rental in Las Vegas?

Qualifying for a short-term rental license is a three-step process that requires:

• Approval by the Las Vegas Planning Department
• A Conditional Use Verification (CUV) Permit including inspection
• A business license

View complete set of short-term rental instructions as provided by the City of Las Vegas, Department of Community Development Short-Term Rental Handout.

1. Planning Approval

Begin the process for approval by contacting the Planning Department at (702) 229-6301. Although short-term rentals are widely available in most neighborhoods of Las Vegas, they are subject to a number of restrictions.

Does my home qualify as a short-term rental?

In order to qualify as a vacation rental, or short-term rental your home must meet all of these conditions:

• Owner-occupied
• Have three bedrooms or less
• Located at least 660 feet from another short-term rental, and 2,500 feet from a Resort Hotel
• Be in a location that allows short-term residential rentals
• Must comply with licensing, noise and parking regulations

Additionally, homeowners must adhere to zoning laws, ensuring their property is in an area where short-term rentals are permitted. It's essential to familiarize yourself with these zoning regulations to avoid potential legal complications down the line. There are various master-planned communties where short-term rentals are not allowed. 

As of November 2023 communities where short-term rentals are NOT allowed are:

• Summerlin, including Sun City Summerlin
• Town Center
• Skye Canyon
• Cliff's Edge
• Symphony Park
• Grand Canyon Village
• Las Vegas Medical District
• Providence Square

View a current map outlining the City of Las Vegas Short Term Rental Locations

2. Conditional Use Verification (CUV)

Once you receive approval from the Planning Department, you're on your way to obtaining your Conditional Use Verification (CUV). Next, you will require:

Justification Letter
This is a detailed letter that explains the request, provides hours of operation, a parking analysis, and any other detailed information that would enable the Director to determine that the specified Conditional Use Regulations for the proposed use are met.

Site Plan / Building Elevations / Floor Plan
This doesn't have to be completed by a professional, just draw to the best of your ability. Make sure it includes the required information as outlined in the guide.

Inspection
In addition to meeting the above conditions, you will require an inspection of the property. The inspector will check for things such as:

• Verifying the number of bedrooms
• Check for safety related requirements. For instance fire extinguishers should be properly mounted in the kitchen, on each floor and in the garage. They should have a current, certified service tag as well.
• Confirm that any structural renovations were approved and completed with a building permit
• Interconnected smoke detectors should be installed in each sleeping room and other locations in the residence.
• Carbon monoxide detectors are required in homes with fuel-fired appliances

View a complete overview of the requirements for Short-Term Rental Home Inspection

View a detailed explanation of submittal requirements for Conditional Use Verification

3. Licensing

All short-term residential rentals must obtain a business license prior to operating. The application process involves submitting documentation, such as proof of ownership, and a floor plan outlining the bedrooms and living spaces as well as the bedroom being occupied by the property owner during rental periods. The licensee must also provide proof of liability insurance coverage with a $500,000 minimum amount.

How much does a Busiiness License Cost?

Paid by the home owner, in advance, there is an annual fee of five hundred dollars for each residential unit.

A complete list of the items required for the licensing application is in Appendix 2 in the Short-Term Rental Handout

Once licensed, primary occupiers must also comply with health and safety standards set by the city. This includes providing guests with emergency information, maintaining the property in good condition, and ensuring that it meets all relevant building codes.

The property owner must following the Municipal Code guidelines regarding Noise, Parking and Trash:

• Noise levels that can be heard 50 feet from the property line is a violation that may be reported.
• Parking: All residents in the short-term rental must be parked in the driveway. Vehicles should not block driveways or mailboxes from neighboring homes.
• Trash: All garbage should be stored away and left out of public view, except when placed in proper trash cans for the purpose of collection.

Get your online Business License Application here

Additional Resources

City of Las Vegas Blog - Short-Term Rentals

Conclusion:

As the short-term rental market continues to thrive in Las Vegas, navigating the city's regulations is essential for both primary occupiers and investors. Whether you're renting out your spare room or managing multiple Las Vegas condo properties as part of a lucrative investment portfolio, obtaining the necessary licenses, understanding zoning regulations, and complying with health and safety standards are paramount.

By staying informed and adhering to the city's guidelines, you can participate in the flourishing short-term rental industry in Las Vegas responsibly. Whether you're a local resident seeking additional income or an investor looking to capitalize on the city's vibrant hospitality scene, success in the short-term rental market begins with a thorough understanding of the regulatory landscape.