The City of Greensboro is considering legislation to regulate short term rentals of private homes.

These short term rentals generally include the rental of private homes through services such as Airbnb and VRBO.

Currently the city does not have a definition for this type of short term rental of private residential property and these rentals are regulated in the broader category of Tourist Homes (Bed and Breakfasts).

The proposed ordinance amendment would both define and regulate short term rentals.

The Greensboro Planning Department is holding two virtual information sessions to get input from the public about the proposed ordinance amendment from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 17 via Zoom.  Those who would like to participate are asked to register at email planning staff.

The proposed ordinance amendment includes requiring short term rentals to obtain a permit from the city and renew the permit on a yearly basis.  There is no cost listed for the permit but the proposed amendment states, “This permit may be revoked by the Planning Department based on continuing violations of this ordinance, in addition to any other enforcement actions outlined in 30-5-4.”

It also states, “Gatherings that are publicly announced or promoted (through any means) and involve more than 2 times the number of persons renting the property are prohibited.”

No exterior signage would be allowed.

The proposed amendment defines and regulates both short term rental of a bedroom or bedrooms described as “Homestay” and whole house short term rental.

To qualify for “Homestay” short term rental, “The host for the rental must use the property as their primary residence and be on site during the rental.”

Short term rental is defined as “at least 2 nights and no more than 30 days.”

The proposed ordinance amendment can be viewed here: draft regulations .