05/02/2025
Thinking About an Airbnb in Fort Collins? Here’s What You Need to Know
Short-term rentals (STRs)—like those listed on Airbnb and VRBO—have become a popular way for homeowners to earn extra income. Whether it's renting out a spare bedroom or an entire vacant home, these platforms offer flexibility that can even help cover a mortgage.
However, whether you're allowed to operate an STR depends on local regulations. In Fort Collins and unincorporated Larimer County, STRs are legal—but only with the proper license.
Fort Collins has specific rules. STRs are only allowed in single-family homes, and owners can rent out either their primary residence or a non-primary (non-owner-occupied) home. But there's a catch: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), recently approved for use in Colorado, cannot be used as short-term rentals in Fort Collins.
To make things clearer, the city has released a map showing which neighborhoods permit STRs. Still, if your property is part of a homeowners association (HOA), be sure to check those rules—HOA restrictions take precedence over city regulations when it comes to STRs.