Gulf Shores, AL - STR Zoning Restrictions

[Ben Scarborough]

Whether you are looking for your first or next short term rental, most of us can agree that finding the next great deal can take up a lot of our time. As time gets more valuable, it is important we are taking the appropriate actions to get the most out of our time. When it comes to researching a new STR market, the same holds true. Prior to wasting any energy on diving deeper into a market or running the numbers on a property, it is critical that we have a good understanding of the local ordinances/restrictions. Whether an HOA has a restriction on the number of STRs allowed in the neighborhood or local laws prohibit operating an STR in a specific zone, save yourself some time and get this information before getting excited about your 20% or greater return you may calculate on it.

Regulations can typically be found by looking through the city's Planning & Zoning page, and when in doubt contact the local licensing/permitting department and ask them if STRs are allowed at your specific property of interest! See below for the current STR regulations in place for Gulf Shores, AL as an example.

Gulf Shores, AL - STR Zoning Restrictions

Dwelling Units Licensed for Vacation Rental are allowed in...

- Single Family and Duplex Tourist Rental Overlay District

- BN, BG, BT, ICW-N, ICW-S Zoning Districts

- Multi-family uses that are designated for vacation rentals in Planned Unit Developments

Dwelling Units Licensed for Vacation Rental are prohibited in...

- AG, ATP, ED, IND, OS, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, and R-5 Zoning Districts

- Single family subdivisions in Planned Unit Developments

It is important to note that there are exceptions to certain properties that fall within the prohibited list. These exceptions can be identified in Section 6-18 of the Gulf Shores Zoning Ordinance Doc.

Another tool I have found useful in identifying properties to focus on is the Gulf Shores Interactive Zoning Map. Some features that can be utilized from this tool are filtering in the zoning map, searching for a property address, and filtering in the Single Family and Duplex Tourist Rental Overlay District.

What kind of STR regulations are unique to the markets y'all are looking at?

[Richard Elvin]

That is some really useful info! Thank you for sharing! 
GS is one of the locations I'm looking at for a first str. The price point, taxes, and beach access seems to be a good combination. Insurance would seem to be the biggest negative.