Starting January 1, 2027, short-term rentals in unincorporated Gunnison County will be subject to a new licensing program. Approved by the Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners in October 2026, the program introduces a $150 license, renewed every three years.
If you own or are considering purchasing a vacation rental in the Crested Butte or Gunnison Valley area, here's what you need to know.
Effective date: January 1, 2027
License fee: $150
Renewal: Every three years
License cap: No countywide limit on the number of STR licenses
Applications: Will be available online December 1, 2026
Grace period: A one-time 30-day grace period after the regulations take effect
Each STR must have a designated owner's agent who can address complaints and violations. The agent must respond to complaints within 24 hours.
Before the new rules take effect, owners should:
Gather ownership, parcel, and tax account information.
Verify permitted bedrooms and septic capacity.
Designate an owner's agent.
Review HOA and private covenant restrictions.
Monitor the County website for application instructions and updates.
Understanding local short-term rental rules is an important part of evaluating a property's rental potential. If you're considering buying or selling in Crested Butte or the Gunnison Valley, we can help you navigate the local real estate market.
The new requirements apply to eligible residential properties rented or advertised for stays of fewer than 30 consecutive days in unincorporated Gunnison County.
Properties within incorporated municipalities, including Crested Butte, Mt. Crested Butte, Gunnison, and Pitkin, are subject to their respective local regulations instead. Some communities, including Crested Butte South, have additional POA or private covenant requirements.
Applicants should be prepared to provide:
Applicant and owner contact information
Owner’s Agent designation
Proof of ownership and property details
Maximum occupancy based on septic capacity
Gunnison County tax ID, required on all advertisements
Written verification of regulatory compliance
No inspections required
Owner’s Agent available 24/7 and must respond to complaints within one hour
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