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What is the New Orleans STR Ordinance?
The New Orleans STR Ordinance is the comprehensive body of municipal laws established to regulate short-term rental properties, defined as the rental of a residential dwelling for a period of less than 30 consecutive days. These regulations were created to manage the growth of the STR market, addressing concerns about housing affordability, neighborhood preservation, and public safety.
The ordinance specifies different types of permits based on zoning and residency, and it outlines the legal obligations for all STR operators in the city.
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How it works
To legally operate a short-term rental in New Orleans, a host must first obtain the correct STR permit from the city's Department of Safety and Permits. The type of permit required depends on the property's zoning district and whether the owner has a homestead exemption, signifying it as their primary residence.
There are two primary categories: Residential STRs (RSTR), which are largely restricted to owner-occupied properties, and Commercial STRs (CSTR), for properties in commercially zoned areas. The application process involves submitting proof of ownership and residency, passing safety inspections, and paying applicable fees.
Once approved, operators must display the permit number on all advertisements, collect and remit all required taxes, and comply with all operational standards, such as occupancy limits and noise restrictions.
Why it matters
Compliance with the New Orleans STR Ordinance is non-negotiable for anyone operating a vacation rental in the city. Failure to adhere to the law can result in substantial daily fines, property liens, permit revocation, and a ban from future operations.
For property owners and managers, these regulations directly impact business viability by determining where and how they can legally operate. Understanding the ordinance is essential for making informed investment decisions and maintaining a lawful, sustainable rental business in one of the country's most popular and highly regulated tourist destinations.
Examples
- A homeowner with a homestead exemption in a residential Uptown neighborhood applies for a Residential STR permit to legally rent out a spare bedroom on Airbnb while they live in the house.
- A property manager receives a violation notice and a fine for advertising an apartment in the French Quarter without displaying its valid STR permit number on the listing.
- An investor is denied a permit for a new STR property in the Marigny because non-owner-occupied rentals are prohibited in that specific residential zoning district.
- The owner of a condo in a Central Business District building zoned for commercial use successfully obtains a Commercial STR permit, allowing them to operate it as a full-time vacation rental without residing on-site.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main types of STR permits in New Orleans?+
Do I need to live in the property to get an STR permit in New Orleans?+
Where must I display my New Orleans STR permit number?+
What are the penalties for operating an illegal short-term rental in New Orleans?+
Related terms
STR License
An STR license is an official permit issued by a government authority that legally allows a property owner to operate a short-term rental in a specific…
Occupancy Tax
Occupancy tax is a tax levied on the rental of short-term accommodations, which hosts are legally required to collect from guests and remit to local or state…
Zoning Laws
Zoning laws are municipal or county regulations that dictate how property in specific geographic zones can be used, which directly impacts the legality and…
Business License
A business license for a vacation rental is an official permit issued by a government authority, granting the holder the legal right to operate a short-term…