Summit County Short-Term Rental Rules
These rules cover properties outside town limits, including Copper Mountain. Your overlay zone and basin determine which license options are available.
Last verified: November 3, 2026. Basin counts are from the County's January 2026 update.
Basin Caps
The County caps Type II licenses in each Neighborhood Overlay Zone basin and isn't accepting new Type II applications outside its waitlist process.
| Basin | Type II cap | January 2026 count | Waitlist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Blue | 550 | 508 | Yes |
| Upper Blue | 590 | 563 | Yes |
| Snake River | 130 | 137 | Yes |
| Ten Mile | 20 | 24 | No waitlist listed |
The County also issued 41 new Type II licenses in Lower Blue and 26 in Upper Blue to waitlist applicants in 2026, so check its current map for the latest numbers. Type I licenses are an exception to the caps, and the County has separate qualification rules for them.
How the Waitlist Works
- Only current property owners can apply. Agents and property managers can't apply for them.
- Properties under contract or with an open building permit can't apply until closing or completion.
- Each property can submit one application, with a $75 non-refundable fee.
- When a license opens, the applicant has 30 days to submit a Type II application.
- Being on the list doesn't guarantee a license, and the County gives no estimated timeline.
What Buyers Should Know
- Licenses and transfers: Most ownership changes affect a license, but Ordinance 20-C has limited family and court-related exceptions. Check Section 2.8 before relying on one.
- Well water: Rentals on a well must submit a well permit. A hot tub requires proper augmentation shown on that permit.
- Responsible Agent: Someone must be available 24/7 with a text-enabled phone and respond within 60 minutes.
- Listings: Platforms must show a valid County license number and remove noncompliant listings.
- Fire pits: Outdoor recreational non-gas fire pits aren't allowed at short-term rentals.
- Copper Mountain: The Resort Association has lodging surcharge and reporting requirements in addition to County licensing, so confirm its current rules.
Official County Resources
County STR help: 970-668-4186 or str@summitcountyco.gov
Back to the Short-Term Rental Guide
Looking at a County Property?
Send us the address and we'll help you check its basin, overlay zone and HOA rules before you make an offer.
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.