By Robert Bolar, REALTOR® · October 2026
This is general information compiled in October 2026, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the Town of Garden City or Rich County before buying or listing.
What counts as a short-term rental?
Rich County's 2026 ordinance defines a short-term rental as renting a dwelling, or part of one, for less than 30 consecutive days with overnight accommodations. It excludes hotels, motels, and B&Bs, where an owner or agent is on site.
Inside Garden City town limits
- A short-term rental license from the Town of Garden City is required. The town's code covers STRs in its Short Term Rental Ordinance (Title 8-600).
- New applications are accepted only January 1–April 30 each year. Renewals and applications go through the town's online portal.
- Lodging operators must collect the Rich County Transient Room Tax.
Unincorporated Rich County
- Operators need a short-term rental business license and a separate conditional use permit from Planning & Zoning. Each rental unit needs its own license.
- The application includes proof of ownership, a to-scale site plan with mapped parking spaces and vehicle access, proof of liability insurance, a to-scale floor plan showing sleeping areas, and the street address.
- The license states the maximum occupancy and maximum number of vehicles. Sleeping areas need an egress window and at least 100 sq ft of floor space.
- The ordinance says STRs are allowed in all county zones for owners who comply with it. HOA CC&Rs can still be stricter.
Taxes
Rich County charges a 3% transient room tax on stays under 30 days. It's separate from state and local sales taxes, which are handled through the Utah State Tax Commission. The county also runs a short-term rental complaint hotline.
Before you buy an investment property
- Confirm whether the property is inside Garden City or in the unincorporated county.
- Read the HOA CC&Rs for rental restrictions.
- Check whether the property already holds a license, and whether that license transfers.
- Plan around Garden City's January–April application window.
Sources: