Buffalo, NY

When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it's important for you to understand the laws in your city. As a platform and marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide some useful links that may help you better understand laws and regulations in Buffalo. This list is not exhaustive, but it should give you a good start in understanding your local laws.

Short-term rental registration

In November 2019, the city of Buffalo passed an ordinance requiring short-term rental hosts to register their properties through the Department of Permits and Inspections Services.

Owners must submit their business license application to the Department of Permit & Inspection Services. For owner-occupied rental dwellings, the first-time registration fee is $150 with a $75 annual renewal fee.

For non-owner-occupied rental dwellings, the owner must file for a special use permit with the Department of Permit and Inspection services and the registration fee is $250 with an $150 annual renewal fee. Owners who reside outside of Erie County must designate a local agent.

Visit the city’s Department of Permit and Inspection Services for more information.

Other contracts and rules

It's also important to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable.

Our commitment to your community

We're committed to working with local officials to help them understand how Airbnb benefits our community. Where needed, we'll continue to advocate for changes that will allow regular people to rent out their own homes.