North Dakota Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

North Dakota's Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora, and the Badlands offer unique STR opportunities in one of the least regulated states for short-term rentals. Whether you already own a vacation rental in North Dakota or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in North Dakota vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers North Dakota'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 North Dakota, Awning's property management team operates in Fargo, Bismarck, and the Badlands/Medora area and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How North Dakota Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in North Dakota is generally defined as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer. Any rental longer than this threshold is typically treated as a long-term rental and subject to different rules.

Does North Dakota Require a Statewide STR License?

North Dakota does not have a statewide STR licensing requirement. Local regulation is minimal compared to most states, making it one of the more investor-accessible regulatory environments in the country.

North Dakota Short-Term Rental Taxes

North Dakota imposes a 5% state sales tax on STR income. Many counties and cities add local sales taxes of 1–2%. Airbnb collects and remits North Dakota state sales tax automatically.

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 North Dakota

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

Fargo

Fargo requires STR operators to obtain a rental license through the city's Inspections Department. Annual renewal and safety inspections are required. The city's growing young professional population has increased year-round STR demand.

Bismarck

Bismarck has implemented a basic STR registration requirement for properties in residential zones. The city's status as the state capital drives consistent demand from government visitors and contractors.

Medora

Medora, gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, has minimal STR regulation. Basic county tax registration is the primary requirement, making it one of the most investor-friendly tourist markets in the state.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in North Dakota

• 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

North Dakota'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 Fargo, Bismarck, and the Badlands/Medora area 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 North Dakota.