Short-term rentals (STRs), commonly referred to as "vacation rentals," are legal in Niagara County, New York, but are regulated through specific ordinances, particularly in Niagara Falls. To operate legally, property owners must obtain a permit from the Department of Code Enforcement, which requires documentation like proof of ownership, a floor plan, and a parking plan, alongside a $250 application fee. The city caps the number of permitted rentals to control density, allowing a maximum of 200 total permits, with a limit of 150 for owner-occupied properties and 50 for non-owner-occupied rentals. STRs typically thrive in diverse settings ranging from urban apartments near tourist attractions to cabins in the more rural parts of the county. The market in Niagara County largely caters to tourists drawn to attractions like Niagara Falls State Park, although there is also a presence of business travelers. Enforcement of these regulations is taken seriously, with fines for non-compliance and a focus on maintaining neighborhood integrity. The City Clerk's office and the Code Enforcement Department handle regulations and enforcement of these rentals. For more details, visit the official websites: Niagara Falls Short-Term Rentals and BNB Calc on Niagara Falls.