Industry

What is Colorado Springs Short-Term Rental Alliance (COSSTRA)?

Updated 2026-05-28

The Colorado Springs Short-Term Rental Alliance (COSSTRA) is a membership-based, non-profit organization that represents the interests of vacation rental owners, property managers, and hosts within the city of Colorado Springs. Its primary focus is on local advocacy, working with city council and government officials to promote fair and sensible regulations for the short-term rental industry.

COSSTRA also provides education and resources to its members to encourage responsible hosting and community-friendly practices.

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How it works

COSSTRA operates by pooling the resources and voices of its members to create a unified front in local policy discussions. The organization actively monitors proposed municipal ordinances that affect STRs, such as zoning laws, licensing requirements, and occupancy taxes.

It then formulates official responses, gathers data, and mobilizes members to attend city council meetings or contact their representatives. Additionally, COSSTRA disseminates critical information to hosts via newsletters, meetings, and online forums to ensure they are informed about compliance, best practices, and local market trends.

Why it matters

For vacation rental operators in Colorado Springs, COSSTRA provides essential support in a fluctuating regulatory environment. Belonging to the alliance helps individual hosts stay informed about legal obligations and potential threats to their business.

By unifying the local STR community, the organization amplifies their collective influence on policymaking, which is more effective than individual efforts. This advocacy helps protect property rights and ensures the long-term viability of the short-term rental sector in the area.

Examples

  • A host in Colorado Springs receives a COSSTRA email alert about an upcoming city council meeting to discuss new restrictions on non-owner-occupied permits and is able to sign up to speak.
  • A new rental owner joins COSSTRA to access their online guide detailing the specific steps for obtaining a short-term rental license and remitting local taxes correctly.
  • When the city proposes an increase in the annual STR license fee, COSSTRA gathers economic impact data from its members to present a counter-argument to city officials.
  • Members of the alliance use a private COSSTRA social media group to ask for recommendations for reliable local cleaning companies and handymen.

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to join COSSTRA?+
Membership is generally open to short-term rental owners, hosts, property managers, and other local businesses that are directly involved with or support the vacation rental industry in Colorado Springs.
What is the main objective of the Colorado Springs Short-Term Rental Alliance?+
COSSTRA's primary objective is to advocate for fair and balanced short-term rental regulations. It also aims to educate hosts on responsible operating practices and to promote the positive economic contributions of the STR industry to the local community.
Is COSSTRA affiliated with any larger state or national organizations?+
Yes, local advocacy groups like COSSTRA often collaborate with or are members of state-level associations, such as the Colorado Short Term Rental Association (COSTRA), and national organizations to coordinate on broader legislative issues and share resources.
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