Vermont Renters’ Guide to Airbnb and Short-Term Subletting Rules

Considering renting out your Vermont apartment through Airbnb or another short-term rental platform? Vermont has specific laws and regulations about whether tenants can use their rental home for short-term stays. If you're a renter wondering about your rights, responsibilities, and the forms you'll need, this guide will walk you through the details using plain language.

Understanding Short-Term Subletting and Airbnb Rentals in Vermont

Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms, typically mean renting all or part of your home for stays shorter than 30 days. In Vermont, not all leases permit this, and both landlord and local approval may be required.

What Vermont Law Says About Short-Term Rentals

• Lease Restrictions: Most Vermont leases specify whether you can sublet or host short-term guests. Many leases require written landlord permission for any subletting, including Airbnb stays.
• Local Rules: Some Vermont cities and towns, such as Burlington, have additional registration and safety rules for short-term rentals. Check with your city, as local ordinances may affect your rights.
• State Consumer Protection: Even if your lease allows subletting, Vermont landlords cannot refuse permission for unreasonable or discriminatory reasons, in accordance with state fair housing laws.
• Eviction Risk: Renting out your home without required permission, or in violation of your lease, may result in eviction for “unauthorized subletting” under Vermont law.

Always read your lease agreement and communicate with your landlord before listing your home online.

Required Forms and Notices for Vermont Renters

If you want to sublet your home for a short-term rental:

• Notice to Landlord of Sublet Request: While Vermont does not provide a standardized state form, renters should provide written notice (by letter or email) to their landlord. Clearly state your request, the intended dates of subletting, and information about the guest(s).
  Practical example: If you want to host someone on Airbnb for a weekend, draft a letter to your landlord with the guest’s name, the platform, and dates. Keep a copy for your records. (See sample templates at Vermont Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resource.)
• Short-Term Rental Registration (Local): Depending on your city or town, you may need to register your unit and obtain local approval. For example, Burlington requires registration for all short-term rentals. Forms and requirements can be found on your municipality’s housing or zoning office website. Burlington Short-Term Rental Registration.

There are no mandatory state-level subletting forms; check your city’s website or landlord for any additional paperwork.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

In Vermont, tenant-landlord disputes—including those about subletting or eviction—are handled by the Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division. This court can rule on eviction, rental disagreements, and subletting conflicts.

Relevant Vermont Legislation

All tenant and landlord rules are guided by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137).¹

What Happens if You Sublet Without Permission?

If your lease prohibits subletting or requires permission but you rent out your apartment anyway, your landlord may begin eviction proceedings for unauthorized subletting. The process usually follows these steps:

• The landlord may serve a formal “Notice to Quit” stating the lease violation.
• If you do not stop the short-term rentals or move out, the landlord may file for eviction (“ejectment”) in Superior Court.

Learn more about legal eviction steps and timelines at the Vermont Judiciary Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center.

Practical Tips for Vermont Renters

• Review your lease for specific subletting rules or short-term rental restrictions.
• Always request written approval from your landlord before making your rental available online.
• Contact your city to check if you need a short-term rental registration or permit.
• Keep copies of all communications and forms.

FAQ: Vermont Renters and Short-Term Sublets

1. Can I rent my Vermont apartment on Airbnb if the lease doesn't mention subletting?
   Unless your lease specifically permits it, you must still seek landlord approval—for both short- and long-term sublets.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses my sublet request without explanation?
   If you believe the refusal is unfair or discriminatory, you can contact the Vermont Attorney General’s office or seek mediation through Vermont’s court system.
3. Are there penalties for violating local short-term rental rules?
   Yes, you could face fines from your city and possible eviction from your landlord. Always check local rules first.
4. Who handles disputes about subletting or Airbnb evictions in Vermont?
   The Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division resolves these cases.
5. Does Vermont have an official subletting approval form?
   No, but written notice to your landlord is required; provide details and keep a copy.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont renters should always check leases for subletting permissions before listing on Airbnb or similar sites.
• Written landlord approval and (in some towns) local registration are often required for short-term rentals.
• Violating lease or city rules about subletting may result in eviction or fines.

Summing up, always communicate in writing, check your local ordinances, and follow the proper procedure to protect your housing rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Information – Lease rights, forms, and consumer protection
• Vermont Judiciary Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center – Court information and dispute help
• Vermont Department for Children and Families – Housing Assistance
• Burlington Short-Term Rental Registration (for Burlington city residents)

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)

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