Connecticut Laws on Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Sublets

Are you considering renting out your apartment on Airbnb, or worried about your roommate’s short-term guests? Connecticut renters should know what state law says about short-term rental sublets to stay compliant and avoid legal trouble.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals in Connecticut

Short-term rentals—like those made through Airbnb, Vrbo, or other platforms—are typically stays of less than 30 days. In Connecticut, the rules that apply to these arrangements come from a combination of state landlord-tenant law, city/town zoning rules, and your rental agreement (lease).

Are Short-Term Sublets Allowed?

Connecticut does not have a state law directly banning or allowing Airbnb-type rentals, but:

• Most leases require landlord permission for any sublet.
• Leases often include no-subletting clauses. Ignoring these can lead to eviction.
• Many cities and towns (like New Haven and Hartford) have their own zoning rules that may restrict or require permits for short-term rentals. Check with your local city or town hall for details.
• All renters must also follow the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act.

In summary: You usually can't sublet on Airbnb without your landlord’s ok—and maybe a city permit.

Risks of Unauthorized Short-Term Subletting

If you sublet your Connecticut apartment without permission, you could face:

• Eviction for lease violation
• Fines from your landlord
• Possible penalties from your city or town

Landlords are permitted to begin eviction proceedings if a renter violates their lease by subletting in violation of the agreement.

How to Request Landlord Permission for a Sublet

If your lease is silent on subletting, or if you need to request permission, use a written request. There is no standard state sublease form, but you can adapt the General Motion form (JD-CV-2) when dealing with court-related matters, or simply write a detailed letter asking your landlord for written approval.

• When you’d use it: Example: You want to rent your room on Airbnb for two weekends while away. You send your landlord a letter (or the General Motion form if related to pending court matters) outlining dates, guest policies, and your contact during the stay.

Always keep copies of your written request and any replies. If your landlord refuses, respect their decision to avoid eviction risk.

What Else Should Renters Know?

• The Connecticut Superior Court - Housing Session is the official tribunal handling landlord-tenant disputes and evictions in Connecticut.
• The key legislation for renters is the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 831).
• If you’re facing an illegal eviction or retaliation for asking about Airbnb sublets, file a complaint with the housing court or contact Connecticut Fair Housing Center for guidance.

Connecticut rental laws are enforced mainly at the state level, but towns/cities can add their own rules, especially for short-term rentals. Always check locally in addition to reviewing state law.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me for Airbnb subletting without permission?
   Yes. If your lease prohibits subletting or requires landlord approval, hosting on Airbnb without permission can be valid grounds for eviction in Connecticut.
2. Is there a Connecticut law that allows Airbnb sublets?
   No. There is no state law specifically allowing or guaranteeing the right to sublet short-term rentals like Airbnb. Your lease and local zoning rules govern this.
3. What official form do I use to request a sublet in Connecticut?
   There is no statewide sublet form, but requests should be made in writing to your landlord. For court or dispute matters, the General Motion form (JD-CV-2) can help formalize your request.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I’m threatened with eviction over subletting?
   Disputes over eviction go to the Connecticut Superior Court - Housing Session.
5. Can I sublet for a few days without telling my landlord?
   No. In Connecticut, you must have landlord permission—no matter the length of your guest’s stay—unless your lease explicitly allows short-term sublets.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Check your lease and city rules before listing your unit on a platform like Airbnb.
• Always request landlord permission for any sublets.
• Violating subletting terms can lead to eviction or legal disputes.

By staying informed and communicating openly with your landlord, you can avoid costly mistakes with short-term sublet arrangements.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Superior Court - Housing Session (official resource for landlord-tenant court cases)
• State Information on Short-Term Rentals
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center (tenant advocacy and help)
• Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 831) (full legal text)

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1. Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act, Conn. Gen. Stat. §47a-1 et seq.
2. General Motion form (JD-CV-2) - Connecticut Judicial Branch
3. Official CT Short-Term Rentals Information - Department of Consumer Protection
4. Connecticut Superior Court - Housing Session (Tenant-Landlord Tribunal)

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