Industry

What is COSTRA - Colorado Short-Term Rental Association?

Updated 2026-05-28

The Colorado Short-Term Rental Association (COSTRA) is a trade group dedicated to supporting the vacation rental industry in Colorado. Its primary mission is to advocate for fair and sensible regulations at state and local levels, ensuring the long-term viability of short-term rentals.

COSTRA provides its members with educational resources, legal updates, and professional development opportunities to promote responsible hosting and operational excellence.

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How it works

COSTRA functions as a unified voice for the industry by engaging with policymakers, government agencies, and community stakeholders. The association monitors proposed legislation and local ordinances that could affect short-term rentals, providing testimony and data to inform decision-making.

It disseminates critical information to its members through newsletters, alerts, and webinars. Furthermore, COSTRA facilitates networking events, allowing operators to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and build a supportive professional community.

Why it matters

For vacation rental operators in Colorado, COSTRA provides crucial support in a complex and frequently changing regulatory environment. Membership offers access to timely information on new laws, tax requirements, and licensing procedures, which is essential for maintaining compliance.

By pooling resources and presenting a united front, the association gives individual owners and small managers a powerful voice in policy debates, helping to protect their property rights and business interests.

Examples

  • A property manager with listings in Denver and Telluride uses COSTRA's educational resources to train staff on complying with different local regulations.
  • A property owner in Steamboat Springs joins COSTRA to stay informed about a proposed city ordinance that could cap the number of STR licenses.
  • A host in Colorado Springs attends a COSTRA regional meeting to network with other local operators and find a recommended handyman for their rental.
  • Following a new state law, COSTRA develops and shares a compliance checklist with its members to help them update their rental agreements and operational procedures.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of COSTRA?+
COSTRA's main purpose is to advocate for fair public policy, provide education on industry best practices, and serve as a collective voice for short-term rental stakeholders in Colorado.
Who is eligible to join the Colorado Short-Term Rental Association?+
Membership is typically open to short-term rental property owners, professional property managers, and businesses that supply goods or services to the vacation rental industry within Colorado.
How does COSTRA help its members navigate local regulations?+
COSTRA monitors regulatory activity across the state and provides members with timely updates, legal analysis, and compliance guides. They also engage in direct advocacy with local councils and state legislators to represent member interests.
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