Asheville vs Salt Lake City

North Carolina Restricted | Utah Effectively Banned

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
Salt Lake City, Utah
Status Effectively Banned
Permit Fee Contact city for current details
Tax Rate ~12.17% combined (state + local sales + county TRT + municipal TRT)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine Contact city for current details; violations may incur daily fines

Asheville 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 →

Salt Lake City Overview

Traditional STRs (Airbnb-style) are prohibited in all residential zones. Short-term lodging is only permitted in downtown and mixed-use zoning districts, where operators must meet hotel/motel-class licensing and building standards.

Full Salt Lake City guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Asheville or Salt Lake City?
Asheville is classified as "Restricted" while Salt Lake City is "Effectively Banned." Asheville's permit fee is $200 homestay permit fee compared to Contact city for current details in Salt Lake City.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Asheville or Salt Lake City?
Asheville charges ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy), while Salt Lake City charges ~12.17% combined (state + local sales + county TRT + municipal TRT). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Asheville: $500/day for violations. Salt Lake City: Contact city for current details; violations may incur daily fines.