How to Know if a Property Qualifies for Short-Term Rentals in Orange Beach, Alabama
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
As a real estate advisor on the Gulf Coast, one of the most common questions I receive is:
"Can I rent this property short term?"
Whether you're looking to invest in a beach home, purchase a second residence, or simply earn income when you're not using the property yourself, understanding Orange Beach's short-term rental rules is key to making a smart and compliant decision.
Here’s what you need to know about determining if a home or condo in Orange Beach, Alabama qualifies for short-term rentals.
What Is Considered a Short-Term Rental in Orange Beach?
The City of Orange Beach defines a short-term rental (or “vacation rental”) as the rental of a single-family or two-family dwelling for 14 consecutive days or less. This includes nightly or weekly stays often listed on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com.
Not All Areas Allow Short-Term Rentals
In April 2018, the Orange Beach City Council enacted a policy restricting short-term rentals in certain single-family residential neighborhoods. This means some homes may only be rented for 14 days or more, while others—particularly in tourist and mixed-use zones—may allow shorter stays.
To know for sure, it's essential to:
1. Understand the Zoning Designation
Orange Beach is divided into various zoning districts, and each one comes with its own rental regulations. Properties in RS (Residential Single-Family) zones typically have restrictions on short-term rentals, while RM (Residential Multi-Family) and PUD (Planned Unit Development) zones may allow them, depending on additional overlays and HOA rules.
2. Use the Orange Beach Vacation Rental Zoning Map
The City of Orange Beach offers an online Vacation Rental Zoning Map to help identify which areas are approved for short-term rentals.
View the official map and rental regulations here
3. Contact the Planning & Zoning Department
The best way to get a definitive answer is by contacting the Orange Beach Planning & Zoning Department. They can verify the zoning designation, advise on overlay districts, and confirm if short-term rentals are permitted on a specific parcel.
Phone: 251-981-2610
Address: 4101 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL 36561
4. Don’t Forget HOA and Condo Rules
Even if a property is in a zone that permits short-term rentals, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Condominium Associations may have their own restrictions or bans. Always request and review the governing documents—such as the Declaration of Covenants or Bylaws—before moving forward.
What to Look for When Investing in a Gulf Coast Rental Property
If you're purchasing with short-term rental income in mind, be sure to consider:
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Proximity to public beach access or marinas
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Amenities like pools, tennis courts, or boat slips
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Insurance implications (especially in flood zones)
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Parking availability and guest restrictions
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Local demand during peak and off-season
Explore available investment properties at www.searchthegulf.com, where I curate listings based on short-term rental potential, neighborhood zoning, and income-producing amenities.
Vacation Rental Regulations
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Final Thoughts
Whether you're dreaming of a rental-friendly coastal cottage or a high-performing vacation condo, it's important to know where short-term rentals are allowed—and where they’re not. I’ve helped many investors and second-home buyers navigate the zoning, HOA, and city-level regulations to make informed, confident decisions.
If you're thinking about buying a short-term rental property in Orange Beach, reach out anytime. I’d be happy to guide you through the process, review potential listings, and connect you with trusted local resources.
Meredith Amon is a Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
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