Keystone Short-Term Rental Rules
Keystone now runs its own licensing program. There's no cap on licenses today, but the Town has detailed rules for occupancy, parking and trash.
Last verified: November 3, 2026
Who Regulates Keystone Rentals?
The Town of Keystone has handled short-term rental licensing since September 30, 2024. Properties inside town limits no longer fall under Summit County's rules. Properties outside town limits may still be county properties, so use the County's parcel lookup or ask the Town Clerk if you're unsure.
License Basics
- A short-term rental is any dwelling rented for less than 30 consecutive days. Hotels, motels, lodges and similar buildings with a central check-in are excluded.
- You need a license before you advertise or operate, and the license number must appear in all advertising.
- Licenses expire on September 30 of the year after they're issued, or when ownership changes.
- Licenses are generally not transferable. The ordinance allows limited exceptions, including certain family, trust and controlled-entity transfers. Other new owners need a new license and should contact the Town Clerk before or within 30 days after the transfer.
- A Town license doesn't override HOA rules.
Operating Requirements
- Occupancy for homes, duplexes and townhomes: the greater of two people per bedroom plus four, or one person per 200 square feet of living area.
- Condo occupancy: similar, with lower limits in buildings that have narrow egress and no sprinklers.
- Larger properties: occupancy above 19 requires a Class 2 Conditional Use Permit. Septic capacity can also limit occupancy.
- One group at a time: only one booking party may rent a property at a time unless it's a bed and breakfast.
- Parking: each unit needs at least one on-site space, with a maximum of five outdoor vehicles unless a Conditional Use Permit allows more. Parking on Town roads is prohibited, ads must state the limit, and guests need dashboard parking passes.
- Trash: each property needs a waste plan that protects wildlife and keeps containers clear of snow removal areas.
- Responsible Agent: someone must be reachable 24 hours a day and respond to complaints within one hour. The agent's phone number must reach a specific person or extension directly.
Violations carry fines of $250 for a first offense, $750 for a second and $1,000 for a third or later offense. The Town can also suspend or revoke a license.
Official Town Resources
Town Clerk's Office: 970-450-3500, ext. 1
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This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Short-term rental rules, caps and fees change, and HOA covenants can be stricter than local law. Confirm the rules for a specific property with the licensing office, and with your attorney or tax advisor, before you buy or book guests.