🏡 What You Need to Know About Bend, Oregon Vacation Rental Requirements

A Guide for Vacation Homeowners and Real Estate Investors

Bend, Oregon has long been a dream destination for vacationers—and a prime market for vacation rental owners. With year-round outdoor adventure, world-class dining, and a thriving arts and culture scene, it’s no wonder people want to stay, play, and invest here.

But before you list your Bend property on Airbnb or VRBO, it’s crucial to understand the city’s vacation rental requirements and regulations. Whether you’re a local homeowner or out-of-town investor, staying informed ensures your rental is compliant, successful, and sustainable.

📝 What is a Short-Term Rental in Bend?

In Bend, a short-term rental (STR) is defined as a dwelling that is rented for less than 30 consecutive days. This includes full homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and sometimes private rooms within a residence.

Bend categorizes STRs into two types:

1. Type 1 – whole houses rented a maximum of 30 days per year, or up to four (4) rental periods. Secondly, owner-occupied rentals. 
2. Type 2 – whole-house short term rental properties that will be rented more than 30 days per year.

🏠 Bend’s Vacation Rental Permit Requirements

To legally operate a vacation rental in Bend, you must:

✅ 1. Apply for a Land Use Permit

You’ll need conditional land use approval from the city. This includes:

• Location restrictions (must be outside the 500-ft buffer zone from another STR)
• Zoning requirements (STRs are only allowed in certain zones)
• Proof that the property meets safety and habitability standards

✅ 2. Apply for an Operating License

All STR operators in Bend must have a current STR Operating License

✅ 3. Collect & Remit Lodging Taxes

Bend vacation rental owners must collect:

• 10.4% Transient Room Tax (made up of state, county, and city taxes)
  Taxes must be filed and remitted regularly, and failure to do so may result in fines.

✅ 4. Post Required Signage

Your STR must have signage visible from the street showing your:

• Local contact information
• 24-hour emergency phone number

✅ 5. Pay all Fees Associated with License

• Type I short term rental: $1,314.53 + 4% Long Range Planning Surcharge
• Type II short term rental: $3,657.44 + 4% Long Range Planning Surcharge
• Operating License Fees: Initial Application Fee: $350 + Transportation Fee Supplement
  Annual Renewal: $255 + Transportation Fee Supplement
• Transportation Fee Supplement:
        Authorized for whole-house rental      use: $200/year
        All others: $108/year

📏 The 500-Foot Buffer Rule

Bend enforces a 500-foot separation rule between short-term rentals in most residential zones. If a permitted STR already exists within 500 feet of your property (measured property line to property line), your application will be denied.

This is especially important for investors purchasing homes specifically for STR use—check the city’s interactive map or contact the Planning Department before making a purchase.

👮 Compliance & Enforcement

The City of Bend actively monitors STRs for:

• Proper permitting
• Noise complaints
• Occupancy limits (typically no more than 2 people per bedroom, plus 2)
• Parking violations

If a property is operating without a permit, it may be subject to enforcement actions, fines, and denial of future permit applications.

💡 Why Work With a Professional Management Company?

Navigating Bend’s STR regulations can be overwhelming, especially for new owners. At Central Oregon Vacation Homes, we:

• Help guide you through the permitting process
• Ensure ongoing compliance with city regulations
• Collect and remit lodging taxes
• Provide top-tier guest services and maintenance
• Maximize your return while protecting your investment

We live the Bend lifestyle and make it our mission to help you enjoy owning a home here without the stress.

🔗 Helpful Resources

• City of Bend Short-Term Rental Info
• Interactive STR Permit Map

✨ Ready to Turn Your Bend Home into a Vacation Rental?

Whether you already own a property or are exploring investment opportunities, let Central Oregon Vacation Homes help you make the most of it—legally and successfully.

📩 Reach out today to learn more about our management services and what it takes to launch your home as a standout vacation rental in Bend.