Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, as of June 1, 2025, Local Law No. 5-2024 (Chapter 136A) requires all STR operators in Saratoga Springs to hold a valid city license. Operating without one can result in fines of $500 to $1,000 per violation.

Any residential rental for fewer than 30 consecutive days. This includes rooms, accessory dwelling units, and entire homes listed on any platform.

Typically 1–3 weeks from the time we submit a complete application. The fire inspection scheduling is usually the longest step, as it depends on the city's inspector availability.

Denials are uncommon when the application is complete and the fire inspection passes. If you receive a denial, we will review the reason and advise on next steps. For situations requiring a formal appeal or legal challenge, we will refer you to an attorney.

The ordinance requires a license before hosting. We recommend pausing new bookings during the application period to avoid fines. We prioritize getting applications submitted quickly to minimize any downtime.

The inspector verifies compliance with basic life-safety requirements: working smoke detectors on every level, carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher, proper egress from all sleeping areas, and no obvious electrical hazards. We provide a preparation checklist before every inspection.

We handle all inspection scheduling directly with the city's Fire Marshal office. You don't need to contact them.

If items are flagged, we will identify what needs to be corrected and coordinate a re-inspection. Minor issues (missing smoke detector, wrong extinguisher type) are typically resolved quickly and don't significantly delay the license.

Yes. Annual license renewal requires a new fire inspection. We track renewal timelines and coordinate this for clients on the Renewal Management plan.

No, they are separate requirements. The city license is issued by Saratoga Springs. The NY State registration is required under Article 12-D and administered by the Division of Homes and Community Renewal. Both are required.

Property address, owner information, contact details, and confirmation of local compliance (city license). We handle the submission as part of the Full Compliance Setup.

Yes. It must be renewed annually, on a schedule independent from the city license renewal.

City license application, fire inspection scheduling and coordination, NY State Article 12-D registration, affidavit preparation, insurance documentation review, and a license delivery records package. Flat-rate fee: $395 for owner-occupied, $495 for investment/non-owner-occupied.

We guarantee that we will handle every step of the process correctly and follow up until your license is issued. We cannot guarantee specific timelines, as the city's inspection schedule and review speed are outside our control.

Property address, proof of ownership or lease authorization, contact information, and any existing documentation you have. We will give you a clear document checklist after the discovery call.

You can do it yourself. The forms are public. The challenge is knowing which forms, in which order, to which offices, with what supporting documents. Then following up correctly when something stalls. Most hosts who try solo spend 4–10 hours on it and still miss something. We do this every day.