What are the general safety requirements?
  • Rental dwellings shall meet all applicable building, health, fire, and related safety codes including: 
    • That each rental has working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in every bedroom, outside sleeping area, and on all habitable floors; 
    • That each rental unit has working carbon monoxide detectors in every dwelling unit with an attached garage or fuel appliance.
    • That each rental has a properly maintained and charged fire extinguisher in each short-term rental unit; 
    • That each rental has GFCI receptacles within 6 feet of the outside edge of any sink. 
  • The overnight occupancy of a short-term rental shall not exceed the sum of two persons per bedroom plus an additional two persons. Children aged 12 and younger shall not be counted towards the overall number of occupants. 
  • Rentals shall not be operated outdoors, in an accessory structure, in a recreational vehicle, or any non-residential structure. 
  • The rental property shall meet all applicable requirements of the zone in which it is located. 

Show All Answers

1. When was the new ordinance adopted?
2. When does the ordinance go into effect?
3. How do I obtain a Residential Rental License Application?
4. Does the ordinance impact a current rental contract?
5. Why has the City of Lewes adopted new rental regulations?
6. How were these regulations developed?
7. What is stated in the new regulations?
8. How are these regulations different than the previous ordinances?
9. How is enforcement addressed in the regulations?
10. If I currently operate a rental, will I be allowed to continue?
11. What if I suspect a rental is unicensed?
12. What is a Short-Term Rental?
13. Is a Vacation Rental the same as a Short-Term Rental?
14. Where are Short-Term Rentals allowed in the City?
15. Can an accessory structure be rented as a Short-Term Rental?
16. Who needs to apply for a rental license?
17. What are the fees for a rental license, license violation, and operational violation?
18. What are the general safety requirements?
19. Is an inspection required of the rental prior to license issuance?
20. What information is required to process an application for a Rental License?
21. When do I need to renew my Rental License?
22. How many guests are allowed to stay in a Short-Term Rental?
23. Does an owner have to be present during a rental?
24. How can my rental license be revoked?
25. How are complaints against a rental in the city handled?
26. Additional Information