Newport News, Virginia’s Short-Term Rental Laws: What to Know in 2025

Operating a short-term rental (STR) property in Newport News, Virginia – or listing your home on Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms – requires an understanding of the city’s current short-term rental regulations. Since 2022, Newport News has outlined rules to balance neighborhood livability with the economic benefits of short-term rentals, and now they’re ready to enforce them.

Here’s a guide to Newport News’ short-term rental regulations and how to operate your vacation home compliantly. 

Short-Term Rentals in Newport News, VA

Before 2022, it was technically illegal to operate a short-term rental home in Newport News. In June of that year, the Virginia city developed guidelines for short-term rental operators designed to allow residents to legally operate vacation rentals, but also to preserve the quality and character of Newport News’ neighborhoods.

While there were then no plans to proactively enforce the new short-term rental laws, Newport News has changed its tune. In May 2025, the Planning Department issued notices stating that the rules would be enforced starting August 1, 2025.

As of August, short-term rental properties will have to be compliant, or violation notices will be distributed stating operators will have 30 days to meet all STR requirements for Newport News.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Newport News

If you own or plan to start a short-term rental operation in Newport News, make sure your property is in compliance with the city’s rules to avoid penalties.

These rules apply to single-family/two-family dwellings used as short-term rentals in Newport News, VA. Owners of multi-family developments interested in using them as  short-term rentals should review Chapter 45.1.b of the 2022 ordinance.

1. Permit and Registration

• Only the property’s owner may be the operator of the short-term rental.

• All STR operators must obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit from the city before listing their property. Operating without a permit constitutes a zoning violation and may result in enforcement actions.

• Properties must be registered with the City Clerk.

• Operators must have liability insurance coverage of at least $300,000.

• An annual Certificate of Zoning Compliance is required ($150 fee).

2. Primary Residence and Building Requirements

• The Newport News short-term rental must be part of the owner’s primary residence, with the owner living there at least 185 days per year.

• Detached structures (like guest houses) are not permitted for short-term rental use.

• All rented bedrooms must have a closet, a window, and a separating door.

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3. Occupancy Limits

• A maximum of 6 guests are allowed per rental.

• No more than 2 people allowed per bedroom.

• Only one group may rent the property at a time.

• Rentals cannot be used for commercial gatherings or large events.

4. Short-term Rental Safety Features

• Every bedroom must have an exit plan posted in it, indicating the placement of smoke detectors and extinguishers. 

• The rental must have up-to-code fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and CO detectors.

• Rental properties must meet all applicable health, building, and fire safety codes. The Fire Marshal reviews permit applications to ensure compliance.

• If the short-term rental has a swimming pool, it must follow all of Newport News’ pool regulations.

5. Parking and Neighborhood Impact

• Operators must provide off-street parking, typically one space per bedroom. (Contact the Zoning Division to confirm for your property.)

• Noise violations are prohibited.

• Local solid waste rules for trash and recycling must be followed.

6. Business Licensing, Records, and Taxes

• Operators must obtain a business license.

• Operators must maintain a guest log that can be inspected by the zoning administrator with due notice.

• They are required to pay transient occupancy taxes on rental income.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Operation in Newport News, VA

If your property meets all of the Newport News short-term rental laws, you may be eligible to start operating it as a vacation rental in Virginia. Here’s a brief look at the steps of the process:

• Familiarize yourself with all of the city’s short-term rental regulations.

• Have your documents prepared (liability insurance, floor plan with bedrooms noted, proof that it’s your permanent residence).

• Apply for your Newport News Short-Term Rental Permit online.

• Make sure your property meets the zoning, safety, and occupancy requirements.

Failing to Comply with the Newport News Rental Regulations

The City of Newport News, VA has begun enforcing these short-term rental laws to protect both the neighborhoods and rental business owners. When managed well, short-term rentals have a positive impact on the local economy without disrupting the community.

If short-term rental rules are violated, Newport News' Zoning Administration may revoke your certificate of zoning compliance, and you won’t be able to get a new one for two years.

The most common cases of revocation occur when:

• A property has 3 or more violations in one calendar year

• Failure to comply with rental laws

• Refusing to allow entry (with due notice) to a zoning administrator or designee or to cooperate with a City investigation

• Failure to pay real estate taxes, nuisance charges, utility fees, etc. 

If a property is found to be noncompliant with the laws, the owner will receive a 30-day notice to bring it into compliance. After that, their short-term rental permit may be revoked.

The Bottom Line

Newport News, VA’s short-term rental laws apply to all properties within the city renting rooms out for under 30 days at a time. If you own a vacation rental property or are thinking of starting one, now is the time to make sure you’re in compliance. Understanding these regulations protects your investment now and into the future.

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