Short-Term Rental Regulations
& Licensing Guide

The town of Alma, Colorado, permits short-term rentals (STRs) but enforces a strict cap of 10 licenses. Once this cap is reached, no new permits are issued. However, applications remain open and are placed on a first-come, first-served waitlist.

As of January 16, 2025, Alma has reached its maximum STR limit, with six applicants currently on the waitlist. Given that Alma has a total of 211 residential housing units, the cap limits STRs to a small portion of the town’s housing stock.

To legally operate a short-term rental in Alma, property owners must secure a special use permit (SUP), as outlined in Section 16-17-30 of the Alma Municipal Code. Notably, rentals of fewer than 14 days per year do not fall under STR regulations and are exempt from permit requirements.

Before applying for a permit, property owners should ensure compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and tax obligations at both the local and state levels. As STR policies continue to evolve, it is highly recommended that prospective operators refer to official town resources or consult local authorities for the latest regulatory updates.

Short-Term Rentals Property Owner FAQs

  • Determining Jurisdiction for an Alma Short-Term Rental License

The Town of Alma enforces specific short-term rental (STR) regulations that apply only to properties within its town limits. However, many homes near Alma may actually be located in unincorporated Park County, where STR regulations differ. Before applying for an STR license, it is essential to confirm which jurisdiction governs your property to ensure compliance with the correct rules.

 

  • How to Verify Your Property’s Jurisdiction

If you’re unsure whether a property falls within the Town of Alma or unincorporated Park County, you can check using the Park County GIS tool:

  1. Visit the Park County GIS website.

  2. Accept the County disclaimer (if prompted).

  3. Enter the property address in the search bar.

  4. When the property details appear, check the jurisdiction information on the results page.

This section will confirm whether your property follows the Town of Alma’s STR regulations or if it is subject to Park County’s rules instead.

 

  • Why This Matters

Determining the correct jurisdiction is crucial for avoiding fines, penalties, or legal complications. If your property is within Alma’s limits, you must follow the town’s STR licensing rules and cap restrictions. If it is in unincorporated Park County, different regulations may apply.

For the most up-to-date STR guidelines, visit the Town of Alma’s official website or contact local authorities directly.

Key Changes & Updates

Alma Short-Term Rental License

Alma permits short-term rentals but has implemented a cap of ten (10) licenses in total. Once this maximum is reached, no new STR permits will be issued. However, applications can still be submitted and will be placed on a waitlist, processed on a first-come, first-served basis. As of January 16, 2025, the cap has been reached, and there are six (6) applicants on the waitlist. For context, Alma comprises approximately 211 residential housing units.

buybreck.com

Alma Short-Term Rental Occupancy Limits

The Town of Alma has not specified particular occupancy limits for short-term rentals in the available sources. Property owners are encouraged to consult the town's official resources or contact local authorities to obtain detailed information regarding occupancy regulations.

Alma Short-Term Rental Discussions and Updates

In October 2024, the Park County Board of County Commissioners initiated a review of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance, which included community meetings in various locations, including Alma Town Hall on October 16, 2024. This review process aimed to gather public input and assess potential revisions to STR policies. The finalized recommendations were scheduled for consideration in early 2025.

parkcountyco.gov

No Caps on Alma Short-Term Rental Nights

Currently, there are no specific caps on the number of rental nights for short-term rentals in Alma. Property owners can rent their units without a defined limit on the number of days per year.

Need Help Understanding Alma Short-Term Rentals?

For property owners or prospective buyers seeking to navigate Alma's short-term rental landscape, it's advisable to consult directly with the Town of Alma or refer to official municipal resources to ensure compliance with current regulations. Staying informed about any changes in policies or licensing requirements is essential for successful STR operations.

Disclaimer: This information is based on sources available as of February 26, 2025. For the most current and detailed information, please refer to the Town of Alma's official communications or contact local authorities directly.

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