Asheville vs Denver

North Carolina Restricted | Colorado Legal with Permit

Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.

Asheville, North Carolina
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $200 homestay permit fee
Tax Rate ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for violations
Denver, Colorado
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $100 license fee
Tax Rate 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Every 2 years
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $999/day for unlicensed operation

Denver has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Asheville Overview

Whole-dwelling STRs banned in most zones since 2018; only allowed in resort zoning districts. Owner-occupied homestays (max 2 guest rooms, host must live on-site) are permitted in residential zones with a permit.

Full Asheville guide →

Denver Overview

Only primary residences may be used as STRs. Hosts must obtain a Short-Term Rental license. No cap on rental days. Accessory dwelling units on the same lot are also eligible.

Full Denver guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Asheville or Denver?
Asheville is classified as "Restricted" while Denver is "Legal with Permit." Asheville's permit fee is $200 homestay permit fee compared to $100 license fee in Denver.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Asheville or Denver?
Asheville charges ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy), while Denver charges 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Asheville: $500/day for violations. Denver: $999/day for unlicensed operation.