Does Alaska’s tenant law apply to all vacation rentals?

The Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act does not generally cover short-term or transient stays under 30 days in hotels or similar lodgings. If your stay is longer or the unit is not a transient lodging, portions of the law may apply.

How do I get my security deposit back?

Landlords must return your deposit within 14–30 days based on notice and property condition. If not returned, you can file a Landlord/Tenant Complaint (CIV-502) with the Alaska District Court.

What can I do if I’m locked out during my stay?

If you believe you're unlawfully locked out and your rental is not a transient stay, you have the right to file a complaint in Alaska District Court.

Who handles disputes for short-term rentals?

The Alaska District Court manages rental disputes, including those involving return of deposits and unlawful evictions.

Do I have to give notice to leave a vacation rental?

Generally, no notice is required for stays under 30 days unless the agreement requires it. Stays over 30 days may need written notice per Alaska law.

Alaska Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Special Housing Types & Situations Alaska published June 21, 2025

If you're renting a property in Alaska for a short stay—whether through vacation platforms or directly from a landlord—understanding your rights and protections is crucial. Alaska's tenant laws cover many types of rentals, including short-term vacation rentals, though certain rules may differ. Here's a comprehensive guide designed to help renters like you stay informed and protected while enjoying your stay in the Last Frontier.

What Is a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Alaska?

Short-term vacation rentals refer to leasing a home, apartment, or room for a period that is typically less than 30 days, often arranged through platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or direct landlord agreements. These can include stays for tourism, business, or temporary housing needs.

Which Alaska Laws Protect Short-Term Vacation Renters?

In Alaska, the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03) is the key legislation governing landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities. Importantly, not all portions of the Act apply automatically to short-term or transient rentals. Section AS 34.03.330 specifically excludes transient occupancy in a hotel, motel, or lodging in which a person stays for fewer than 30 days.

However, if a stay extends beyond 30 days, or if a property is regularly leased as a rental unit (not a hotel or inn), more of the Act's protections may apply. Always check your rental agreement and length of stay to determine your rights.

Key Rights for Short-Term Renters

Right to Enjoy the Property: Even during a short stay, you have the right to quiet enjoyment—meaning the landlord cannot unreasonably interfere.
Right to Safe and Habitable Premises: The property must be safe and reasonably clean on arrival, meeting all health and safety codes.
Deposits and Fees: If a security deposit is collected, Alaska requires its return (minus any lawful deductions) within 14 to 30 days of departure, per state guidelines.
Notice of Termination: For stays under 30 days or in a hotel/lodging context, your agreement governs notice requirements. For over 30 days, state law may require at least 14 days’ written notice for eviction without cause.

Check the specific difference between transient rentals and standard residential leases when clarifying your rights.

Security Deposits and Damage Claims

Landlords may request a security deposit, even for short stays. By law, the landlord must return this deposit within:

14 days if you gave proper notice and left the property in good condition
Up to 30 days if there are deductions for damages (with an itemized written statement)

If you disagree with deposit deductions, you may file a dispute. Use the "Landlord/Tenant Complaint (Form CIV-502)" with the Alaska District Court.

Form Name: Landlord/Tenant Complaint (CIV-502)
When to Use: If the landlord unlawfully withholds your deposit or fails to return it in the required timeframe.
Practical Example: You end your week-long stay in an Anchorage vacation rental. The landlord does not return your $300 security deposit or provide an itemized statement explaining deductions. You may use CIV-502 to file a complaint in District Court.
Download from Alaska Court System

Eviction and Notice for Short-Term Renters

Short-term vacation rentals under 30 days are typically considered "transient occupancy," meaning the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act does not require the standard eviction process used for long-term tenants.

However, if your stay exceeds 30 days or you have a written month-to-month rental agreement, the landlord must provide written notice (usually at least 14 days) and comply with standard eviction procedures under state law.

For illegal eviction ("lockouts" without court order), you can contact Alaska's District Court, which oversees landlord-tenant matters.
Learn more about Alaska landlord-tenant cases

What To Do If Your Rights Are Violated

If your landlord locks you out unfairly, withholds your deposit, or fails to provide a safe and habitable space, take the following steps:

Document the incident (photos, written communication)
Try to resolve the issue with your landlord in writing
If unresolved, file a complaint using the correct court form or contact the Alaska District Court for guidance
Review the Alaska Landlord and Tenant Act Handbook for detailed protections and sample notice letters

Tip: Always keep a copy of your rental agreement and any communication with the property owner. This can help resolve disputes quickly.

FAQ: Short-Term Vacation Rental Rights in Alaska

Does Alaska’s tenant law apply to all vacation rentals?
Generally, the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act does not apply to short-term or transient stays under 30 days in hotels or similar lodgings. For longer stays or rental homes, portions of the law may apply.
How do I get my security deposit back?
Your landlord must return it within 14–30 days, depending on your notice and property condition. If you don't receive it, file a "Landlord/Tenant Complaint (CIV-502)" with the Alaska District Court.
What can I do if I’m locked out during my stay?
If you believe the lockout was unlawful and you’re not a transient guest, you may seek relief through Alaska's District Court or request help from tenant advocacy resources.
Who handles disputes for short-term rentals?
The Alaska District Court is the tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes, including return of deposits and unlawful eviction claims.
Do I have to give notice to leave a vacation rental?
For typical short-term stays, no legal notice period is required unless specified in your agreement. For stays over 30 days, Alaska law may require written notice.

Key Takeaways for Renters

Short-term Alaska vacation renters have key protections, but full tenant laws may only apply for stays longer than 30 days or with certain agreements.
Always get agreements and deposit details in writing to support your rights.
Use official forms and courts if your landlord unlawfully withholds deposit or evicts you.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alaska Landlord and Tenant Act Handbook (PDF)
Alaska District Court: Landlord-Tenant Information (Main tribunal for rental disputes)
Full Text of Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03)
Alaska Landlord/Tenant Forms
Alaska Law Help – Renters’ Rights Information