Saratoga Springs, New York Short Term Rental Regulations Guide for Airbnb hosts

Overview: STR Status in Saratoga Springs

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Saratoga Springs, NY, but they are strictly regulated. The City Council passed comprehensive STR regulations through Local Law No. 5 of 2024, creating Chapter 136A in the City Code. These regulations took effect on June 1, 2025, establishing a licensing framework for properties rented for less than 30 consecutive days. While the city permits STR operations, they must comply with mandatory licensing, safety inspections, insurance requirements, and operational limits.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Saratoga Springs

Step 1: Determine Your STR Classification

Saratoga Springs categorizes STRs into two types:

Primary Residence STR: Properties occupied by the owner on a full-time permanent basis
Non-Primary Residence STR: Properties not occupied by the owner on a full-time permanent basis

This classification directly impacts your license fee structure and regulatory requirements.

Step 2: Secure Required Documentation

Before applying, ensure you have all necessary documents ready for upload:

Proof of ownership (deed or property tax bill)
Proof of insurance
Completed and signed affidavit of compliance with Chapter 136A
If on septic system: site plan designating septic system location
For primary residence STR: proof of primary residence status

Step 3: Complete Fire Inspection

The licensing application process triggers an automatic notification to the Saratoga Springs Fire Department (SSFD). They will contact you to schedule your required fire inspection. Prepare using SSFD's pre-inspection checklist for short-term rentals.

Step 4: Submit Online Application

The City of Saratoga Springs requires all license applications through their online portal only. Important: Applications do not save in incomplete status, so prepare all documents before beginning your application.

Step 5: Pay Applicable Fees and Await Approval

License fees vary by STR type:

Primary Residence STR: $100.00
Non-Primary Residence STR: $750.00

Your application is only complete after payment and confirmation of submission. You are not licensed until the Department of Accounts formally issues your license.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Mandatory Documents

Proof of Ownership: Copy of deed or property tax bill
Insurance Documentation: Minimum $300,000 liability coverage required
Affidavit of Compliance: Signed certification with Chapter 136A requirements (download available on city website)
Septic System Site Plan: Required if property uses septic instead of public sewer
Primary Residence Proof: For primary residence STR classification

Required Licenses and Permits

STR License: Annual license required from City Accounts Department
Fire Inspection: Must pass SSFD inspection before license approval
Property Contact Designation: Contact person authorized to promptly remedy issues, must be located within 50 miles

Operational Requirements

Maximum Operating Days: 150 days per calendar year (non-consecutive)
Occupancy Compliance: Must adhere to occupancy limits
Quality of Life Standards: Must comply with neighborhood protection measures

Specific Regulations: City, County, and State Level

City of Saratoga Springs Regulations

Operational Limits:

Maximum 150 days per calendar year for STR leasing (applies to both primary and non-primary residences)
Days do not need to be consecutive
Long-term rentals (30+ consecutive days) do not count against the 150-day limit

Safety and Compliance:

Mandatory fire inspection by SSFD
Minimum $300,000 insurance requirement
Property contact must be within 50 miles of the property
Compliance with occupancy limits

Licensing Structure:

Annual license renewal required
License required for each individual unit in multi-unit properties
Currently only property owners may apply (property managers may be permitted in future updates)

Enforcement Mechanisms:

License suspension for violations
Fines up to $7,500
Grace period for enforcement extends until December 31, 2025

New York State Requirements

Separate from city licensing, New York State requires STR registration with the Department of Tax and Finance for sales tax collection purposes. This requirement took effect March 1, 2025, and is unrelated to city licensing. Visit the Department of Tax and Finance website for registration details and sales tax collection requirements.

County Level

No specific Saratoga County STR regulations were identified in the provided sources. County regulations may apply in addition to city requirements.

Local Authority Contact Information

Primary Contacts

City Clerk's Office / Department of Accounts

Phone: 518-587-3550
Email: cityclerk@saratoga-springs.org
Address: City of Saratoga Springs, 474 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Website: www.saratoga-springs.org/2761/Short-Term-Residential-Rentals-STR

Saratoga Springs Fire Department (SSFD)

Handles fire inspection requirements
Contact information available through city website

Commissioner of Accounts Dillon Moran

Primary city official overseeing STR program implementation

Support Services

Property Assessment Information: City Assessor and Saratoga County assessment records
Legal Compliance: Review HOA/Condo Association agreements as city licensing does not supersede private contractual obligations

Source Links

Primary STR Information Page: www.saratoga-springs.org/2761/Short-Term-Residential-Rentals-STR
News Coverage - Times Union: www.timesunion.com/news/article/saratoga-springs-short-term-rental-owners-19990982.php
News Coverage - NEWS10: www.news10.com/news/saratoga-county/saratoga-springs-passes-short-term-rental-regulations/
City Legislative Alert: www.saratoga-springs.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=714
Affidavit Download: www.saratoga-springs.org/DocumentCenter/View/18531/Affidavit-Certification-of-STR-Owner
New York State STR Registration: www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/publications/sales/short-term-rental.htm

Important Notes:

The online licensing portal was under construction as of August 2025 and anticipated to be live in fall 2025
Applications must be completed in one session as incomplete applications cannot be saved
City licensing does not exempt operators from HOA/COA bylaws or other contractual obligations
State sales tax registration is separate from city licensing requirements

Saratoga Springs is a city located in Saratoga County, New York, renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. As of the latest census, Saratoga Springs has a population of approximately 28,000 residents. The city is situated around 35 miles north of Albany, the capital of New York State, making it relatively close to a major urban center.

Saratoga Springs is famous for a number of landmarks and attractions that draw both short-term and long-term visitors. One of the most notable landmarks is the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest and most iconic horse racing tracks in the United States. More information about the racecourse can be found here.

Another significant attraction is the Saratoga Spa State Park, home to mineral springs, spas, and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). SPAC hosts a variety of events including concerts, ballet, and operas. For more details, visit this link.

Downtown Saratoga Springs is also a bustling area filled with boutique shops, fine dining, and historic sites. The city boasts well-preserved Victorian architecture, giving it a unique charm. Attractions such as Congress Park, with the historic Canfield Casino, provide visitors with both recreational and educational experiences.

In addition to these places, the city offers access to outdoor activities. Saratoga Lake and the surrounding areas offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.

Saratoga Springs' close proximity to Albany and its abundance of attractions make it an appealing destination for short-term rentals, catering to tourists, business travelers, and seasonal visitors alike. The thriving local economy, combined with a picturesque setting and diverse cultural offerings, ensures a steady demand for short-term accommodations.

For more information about what Saratoga Springs has to offer, please visit the official Saratoga Springs tourism website here.

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