New Hampshire Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

New Hampshire's White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee, and fall foliage season create exceptional STR demand, particularly from the Boston metro area just 90 minutes south. Whether you already own a vacation rental in New Hampshire or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in New Hampshire vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers New Hampshire's approach to short-term rental regulation at the state level, then breaks down the rules in key markets investors and hosts need to know. Regulations as of 2026 — always verify current rules directly with your local municipality before listing.

If you'd like help navigating STR compliance in New Hampshire, Awning's property management team operates in Lake Winnipesaukee, North Conway, and Franconia Notch and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How New Hampshire Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in New Hampshire is generally defined as a residential property rented for 185 consecutive days or fewer (for state lodging tax purposes). Any rental longer than this threshold is typically treated as a long-term rental and subject to different rules.

Does New Hampshire Require a Statewide STR License?

New Hampshire does not require a statewide STR permit. Local zoning and registration requirements vary by town, with mountain and lake resort areas having the most active regulatory frameworks.

New Hampshire Short-Term Rental Taxes

New Hampshire has no general sales tax but imposes a 9% Meals and Rentals Tax on STR income. Airbnb collects and remits this tax automatically. Hosts using other platforms or taking direct bookings must register with the NH Department of Revenue Administration.

Regardless of which booking platform you use, it is your responsibility as a host to ensure all applicable taxes are collected and remitted correctly. Failure to comply can result in penalties, back taxes, and potential loss of your ability to operate.

STR Regulations by City in New Hampshire

Below are the key STR markets in New Hampshire and their current regulatory requirements. City regulations change frequently — check with your local planning or licensing department for the most current rules before investing.

North Conway / Carroll County

North Conway and surrounding Carroll County towns have seen a surge in STR activity. While many towns have minimal STR-specific ordinances, some have implemented registration requirements to manage growth near ski areas and White Mountains hiking destinations.

Laconia / Lake Winnipesaukee

Laconia requires STR registration and compliance with local zoning. Properties in the Lakes Region are among the most in-demand in New Hampshire, particularly during Motorcycle Week and summer boat season.

Concord

Concord has implemented STR registration requirements for properties in residential zones. The city requires annual renewal and compliance with life safety codes, though enforcement is lighter than resort-area communities.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in New Hampshire

• Does your city or county require an STR permit or license?
• Are there caps on the number of STR permits in your neighborhood or zone?
• Is your property owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied — and does that distinction affect your eligibility?
• What occupancy, noise, and parking rules apply to your specific property?
• Which taxes are you responsible for collecting and remitting vs. what the platform handles?
• Does your HOA or condo association allow short-term rentals?

The Bottom Line

New Hampshire's STR regulatory environment ranges from investor-friendly rural counties to tightly regulated resort towns and urban cores. Understanding the specific rules in your target market — not just at the state level — is what determines whether your rental operates smoothly or faces costly disruptions.

Staying on top of changing regulations is one of the most valuable things a professional property manager brings to your operation. Awning manages short-term rentals in Lake Winnipesaukee, North Conway, and Franconia Notch and monitors local regulatory changes so you don't have to. Reach out to learn how we can help you operate compliantly and profitably in New Hampshire.