Policies & Legal

What is a Short-Term Rental Registration Number?

Updated 2026-05-28

A Short-Term Rental Registration Number is a unique identification code issued by a government authority, such as a city or county, to a property owner or manager. This number certifies that the rental property is legally permitted to operate as a short-term lodging establishment.

Displaying this number on public listings is often mandatory and serves as proof of compliance with local regulations regarding safety, zoning, and taxation.

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How it works

To obtain a registration number, a host must typically submit an application to the relevant local municipal department. This process usually involves providing documentation, such as proof of ownership, liability insurance, and completed safety inspections, along with paying an application or licensing fee.

Once the application is approved, the authority issues a unique number. The host is then required to display this number on all advertisements for the property, including listings on OTAs like Airbnb and Vrbo, as well as on their own direct booking website.

Why it matters

This number is crucial for legal operation, as it helps hosts avoid substantial fines, penalties, and delisting from booking platforms. For guests, it provides a level of trust and safety, confirming that the property adheres to local standards.

For municipalities, registration numbers are a vital tool for enforcing regulations, monitoring the impact of STRs on housing, and ensuring the proper collection of lodging or transient occupancy taxes.

Examples

  • In British Columbia, a property manager is required to enter their provincial registration number into a dedicated field when setting up a new property profile on Vrbo.
  • Following the rules of New York's Local Law 18, a host must have their registration number visible on their Airbnb profile page for any short-term stay advertisement.
  • A host in Lisbon must obtain and display a 'Número de Registo de Alojamento Local' (AL) on their Booking.com listing to operate legally.
  • Before renting out her San Diego condo for less than 30 days, an owner applies for a Short-Term Residential Occupancy (STRO) license number and adds it to her direct booking website's footer.

Frequently asked questions

Where must I display my short-term rental registration number?+
You typically need to display the registration number on any advertisement for your rental. This includes your listings on online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com, your own direct booking website, and any social media posts or other promotional materials.
What happens if I don't have a legally required registration number?+
Operating a short-term rental without a required registration number can lead to severe consequences. These may include hefty fines from local authorities, being delisted from OTAs, and potential legal action that could prohibit you from renting your property in the future.
Do all cities and countries require a registration number for vacation rentals?+
No, regulations vary widely. While some jurisdictions have no specific registration requirements, many major cities and tourist destinations worldwide have implemented them to manage their local tourism industry. It is essential for hosts to research and understand the specific laws in their property's location.
What is the process for obtaining a registration number?+
The process generally involves applying with your local government body responsible for housing or business licensing. You'll likely need to fill out a form, provide documents like proof of insurance and a fire safety certificate, and pay a fee. Some property management software like Lodgify offers tools like guest registration to help hosts streamline other compliance tasks once they are licensed to operate.
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