West Virginia Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park, Snowshoe Mountain ski resort, and Seneca Rocks create growing STR demand in one of the East Coast's most naturally scenic and underrated states. Whether you already own a vacation rental in West Virginia or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in West Virginia vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers West Virginia'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 West Virginia, Awning's property management team operates in New River Gorge, Snowshoe, and the Eastern Panhandle and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How West Virginia Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in West Virginia 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 West Virginia Require a Statewide STR License?

West Virginia does not require a statewide STR license. Local municipalities govern STR regulation, and many rural areas have minimal requirements — making West Virginia one of the more investor-accessible states in the region.

West Virginia Short-Term Rental Taxes

West Virginia imposes a 6% state sales tax and a hotel occupancy tax on STR income. Fayette County (New River Gorge area) and Pocahontas County (Snowshoe) add local tourism taxes. Airbnb collects and remits West Virginia state taxes 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 West Virginia

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

Fayetteville / New River Gorge

Fayetteville, gateway to New River Gorge National Park, requires basic STR registration through the town. The surrounding Fayette County has seen rapid STR growth since New River Gorge gained National Park status in 2020, with relatively light regulation compared to similar gateway communities.

Snowshoe / Pocahontas County

Snowshoe Mountain Resort area requires STR compliance with Pocahontas County regulations. Many Snowshoe properties are within resort communities with HOA rental rules that operate in addition to county requirements.

Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry, where the Shenandoah meets the Potomac, requires STR registration with Jefferson County. Strong year-round tourism from Civil War history and outdoor recreation drives consistent demand in a market with manageable regulatory requirements.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in West Virginia

• 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

West Virginia'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 New River Gorge, Snowshoe, and the Eastern Panhandle 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 West Virginia.