From the Wyo Stays team. Educational information, not legal advice.
Here's a trap that catches more first-time buyers than any city rule: an HOA or subdivision covenant that bans or restricts short-term rentals — even where the city allows them. Covenants are private rules that run with the land, and they can quietly kill your plan. Read them before you buy.
Where the restrictions hide
- CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) — the recorded rules for the subdivision/HOA
- HOA bylaws and rules — can add or clarify restrictions
- Amendments — covenants change; get the current version
What to look for
- Explicit STR/transient-rental bans or minimum-lease terms (e.g., "no rentals under 30 days," "no rentals under 6 months")
- Occupancy and use restrictions ("residential use only," "single-family only")
- Nuisance, parking, and guest rules that could hamper STR operation
- Rental caps (some HOAs limit how many units can be rented)
- Approval requirements or fees for renting
How to check (do this before you offer)
- Request the full, current CC&Rs and HOA docs during due diligence.
- Read the rental and use sections carefully — or have an attorney do it.
- Ask the HOA directly, in writing, whether short-term rentals are permitted.
- Don't rely on "the neighbor rents theirs" — they may be non-compliant or grandfathered.
If you already own and there's a restriction
Options can include seeking an HOA amendment (hard), pivoting to mid-term/long-term (often above the 30-day line the covenant cares about), or complying. Talk to an attorney.
The bottom line
A beautiful property you're contractually barred from renting is a very expensive mistake. Covenant review is 30 minutes that can save you a purchase.
→ Read the Permit & Zoning Lookup Guide, or → get a free evaluation — we help buyers confirm a property is clear before they commit.