How to get a short-term rental permit in Albany, NY (2026)
Albany does not currently require a dedicated short-term rental permit, but tax registration and other rules may still apply. Here's what to confirm before you list.
Permit at a glance
| Permit required | No |
|---|---|
| Renewal | — |
Step by step
- 1
Confirm your property is eligible
Confirm the property's zoning allows short-term rentals. Albany's Unified Sustainable Development Ordinance (USDO) does not call out 'Short-Term Rental' as a distinct use, so no zoning district explicitly allows or prohibits STRs; the city itself notes the question 'has never been tested because no one has submitted a permit application to have an STR.' STRs currently operate citywide under general dwelling-unit and quality-of-life codes. City-drafted STR legislation (zoning and licensing options presented to the Common Council in February 2024) had not been adopted as of July 2026.
- 2
Register for occupancy taxes
Register to collect and remit the applicable lodging/occupancy taxes for Albany. Some are collected automatically by the booking platform and some you may need to remit yourself.
STR rules change without warning.
Get an email the moment Albany changes its short-term rental rules — plus renewal reminders before your permit expires.
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Verified July 21, 2026. Informational only — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Permit requirements and fees change; confirm current requirements with Albany before applying.