District of Columbia (DC) Short-Term Rental Regulations
Compare STR rules across 1 District of Columbia city. License fees, tax rates, and operating rules. Verified May 2026.
At a Glance
Regulatory Climate and Primary Residence fields derived from city-level archetype data. Preemption status verified against state statutes (verified against state legislative records).
📊 By the Numbers
- 1 city covered in District of Columbia
- License fee range: $99–$99
- 1/1 city (100%) require primary residence
- Combined lodging tax: DC combined: 14.5%
Source: City-level data from official municipal sources, cross-verified May 2026.
Regulatory Overview
The District of Columbia regulates STRs at the city level; there is no state intermediary. Washington DC requires primary residence and imposes a 90-day annual cap on non-owner-occupied stays. The biennial license fee is $99. Combined taxes reach 14.5%. DC is a solid market for homeowners who want part-time STR income. Accessible fees, strong year-round tourism demand, but the 90-day cap limits revenue upside for pure investors.
City Comparison — 1 City
All District of Columbia cities covered by RentPermitted, ranked and compared:
| City | Status | License Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Washington DC | Primary Residence + 90-Day Cap | $99.00 every 2 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cities in District of Columbia does RentPermitted cover?
We cover 1 city in District of Columbia: Washington DC.
Does District of Columbia have state-wide STR laws?
District of Columbia regulates short-term rentals primarily at the city level. There is no comprehensive state-wide STR law. Check each individual city page for specific license requirements, fees, and operating rules.
Which District of Columbia city is best for STR investment?
Washington DC is the only city we currently cover in District of Columbia. DC is a solid market for homeowners who want part-time STR income. The 90-day cap is restrictive but workable, and government/diplomatic demand is consistent and less seasonal than leisure markets. Th
Similar States
States with a comparable mixed regulatory profile:
Disclaimer: Data sourced from official District of Columbia city websites and state statutes. Regulations change. Verify with local authorities before making investment decisions. Last comprehensive review: May 2026.
RentPermitted is not a government agency. We compile public information for educational purposes.