Major Changes Proposed for Pitkin County, CO, STR Regulations

8/26/2026

Pitkin County, Colorado, is considering major changes to its short-term rental regulations that would replace its existing rental-history requirement with geographic caps and a lottery system for new permits. Proposed rules would create a general permit allowing up to 120 rental nights annually, an uncapped owner-occupied permit limited to 30 nights, and a separate 180-night permit for Redstone. The changes would also lower licensing fees, extend permits to two years, and potentially add a 6% lodging tax. Consultants estimate the new system could increase STR licenses by 10% to 20%, while maintaining tighter limits in rural areas. The county also aims to close loopholes involving unregulated monthly rentals and strengthen requirements for safety, monitoring, and enforcement.

Aspen Journalism (08/19/26) Laurine Lassalle

Why It Matters: The proposal could expand STR eligibility, although geographic caps and lotteries would continue to constrain license availability.