Louisiana Airbnb Sublets: Short-Term Rental Laws for Renters

Short-term rentals like Airbnb can seem like an easy solution if you’re leaving town for a while or want to help with the cost of your lease in Louisiana. But before listing your apartment or home, it’s important to know what Louisiana law says about subletting, getting landlord approval, and avoiding legal trouble.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals and Sublets in Louisiana

Short-term rentals, most commonly listed on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo, are generally stays under 30 days. Subletting means a tenant rents their unit or a portion of it to someone else, typically for a shorter term. In Louisiana, these activities are not always automatically allowed—and can be complex depending on your lease, city rules, and state law.

Can Renters Legally Sublet Through Airbnb?

• Lease Terms Matter: Most Louisiana leases specifically state whether subletting or short-term rentals are allowed.
  If your lease forbids subletting or requires written landlord consent, offering your place on Airbnb without permission can be grounds for eviction.
• Landlord Consent is Key: Even if your lease is silent, best practice is always to ask your landlord in writing and get explicit, written approval before subletting or hosting guests via Airbnb.
• Local City Ordinances: Many Louisiana cities (including New Orleans and Baton Rouge) have additional rules and may require short-term rental permits or registration.

What Does Louisiana State Law Say?

There is no specific Louisiana state law regulating Airbnb or short-term rentals. However, the Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668-2729 govern landlord-tenant relationships. Agreements about subletting and rental terms must be honored, and violating them may result in termination of your lease or eviction proceedings.¹

City Rules and Permits: What Else Should You Check?

• City of New Orleans: Strictly regulates short-term rentals. Most rentals under 30 days require a city-issued Short-Term Rental License, and such rentals without proper permits can result in hefty fines or legal action. Your landlord’s approval is also required for this application.
• Baton Rouge and Other Cities: May have local laws, including zoning restrictions or neighborhood bans on short-term rentals.
  
  Always check your city or parish government website for current short-term rental requirements.

When in doubt, contact your local city or parish code enforcement office for details on permitting and zoning.

What Happens If You Sublet Illegally?

• Your landlord may issue you a written notice to vacate the premises (an eviction, known as a "Rule to Evict" in Louisiana).
• You could face legal and financial penalties, especially if your lease or city law is violated.
• Your guests could be forced to leave abruptly if the property is not properly registered or approved for short-term use.

Eviction Notices and Forms in Louisiana

If a landlord believes you have illegally sublet or violated the lease, they must follow proper legal procedure. In Louisiana, the main eviction process happens through the courts, overseen by your local District Court (or City Court in larger municipalities).

• Form Name: Rule for Possession (Eviction Petition)
  • When used: If your landlord begins legal eviction, this court form initiates the process. You will receive it after a written notice or demand to vacate (usually a 5-Day Notice).
  • What to do: If served, appear in court on the date listed. Consult your district court's self-help center or Clerk of Court for specifics.
  • Louisiana Courts - Forms Library
• Notice to Vacate: There isn’t one statewide form, but many parishes provide sample eviction notices.
  Always check with your local court's landlord-tenant page.

If You Want to Sublet: Key Steps for Louisiana Renters

• Carefully review your lease for any subletting or guest-hosting restrictions.
• Request written, signed permission from your landlord before listing or renting on Airbnb.
• Check with your city or parish about permits, zoning, and registration requirements for short-term rentals.
• Make sure your subtenants or guests understand the house rules and are briefed about building regulations.

This keeps you within state law and protects you from potential disputes or eviction.

FAQ: Louisiana Short-Term Rentals and Airbnb Sublets

1. Do I need my landlord’s permission to sublet my apartment on Airbnb in Louisiana?
   Almost always, yes. Most leases require written consent from your landlord to sublet or short-term rent your home. Without permission, you risk lease violation and possible eviction.
2. Can my landlord evict me for listing my place on Airbnb?
   If your lease bans subletting or requires approval—and you list anyway—your landlord may start the eviction process following proper notice.
3. Does Louisiana have a standard sublease form?
   There isn't a statewide official sublease form, but many local courts offer templates. Always get landlord approval in writing before using any sublease agreement.
4. How do I find out if my city requires Airbnb permits?
   Check your city or parish's official website, or visit city hall or code enforcement. New Orleans, for example, has a Short-Term Rental portal with application details.
5. Where do eviction cases related to short-term rentals get handled?
   Evictions in Louisiana are resolved by your local District Court or City Court, under the Louisiana Civil Code.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Always check your lease and get written landlord approval before subletting or listing on Airbnb in Louisiana.
• Many cities in Louisiana require a permit for short-term rentals—be sure to confirm local regulations.
• Unauthorized subletting or hosting can result in eviction or legal penalties; eviction disputes are heard at your local District or City Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Louisiana Supreme Court – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• Louisiana Civil Justice Center – Tenant FAQ
• City of New Orleans Short-Term Rental Program
• Louisiana State Courts Directory
• Louisiana Civil Code – Lease of Things (Articles 2668–2729)

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1. See: Louisiana Civil Code Articles 2668–2729 (Leases)

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