Short-term rentals are an integral part of the Dominican Republic’s tourism-driven real estate market, and many foreign buyers acquire property with the intention of generating income through platforms such as Airbnb. In general terms, short-term rentals are legally permitted, but their permissibility is not universal and must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
National law does not prohibit short-term rentals. However, the legality of renting a specific property depends largely on the contractual and regulatory framework governing that property. Condominium bylaws, master development regulations, and homeowners’ association rules often establish limitations or conditions on rental activity. Some developments explicitly allow short-term rentals, others regulate them through registration or management requirements, and some prohibit them altogether.
Foreign buyers frequently assume that because a property is located in a tourist area, short-term rentals are automatically allowed. In practice, this assumption can be incorrect. Violating condominium rules can expose owners to fines, legal action, or restrictions on use of common areas.
In addition to private regulations, operational considerations must also be addressed. Depending on the nature and scale of the rental activity, owners may be subject to register rental activity for tax purposes.
