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Property in Cairns Regional Council, QLD

Local Council Rules

Airbnb & Short-Term Rental Rules in Cairns Regional Council 2026

QLDLast updated: 2026-03-20

Can I Airbnb in Cairns Regional Council?

YES

Short-term rentals are permitted in Cairns Regional Council. Specific registration and permit requirements are council-dependent — confirm with your council before listing.

Check rules for a specific address in Cairns Regional Council

Short-Term Rental Regulations

Queensland State Rules

Registration: Not required — No state STR register — local council planning rules apply
Night cap: No state-wide cap
Levy: No state-level levy (council-specific levies may apply)
Legislation: Local council planning schemes (under the Planning Act 2016 (Qld))
Code of conduct: None
  • There is no Queensland state-wide STR register and no mandatory state-wide registration scheme
  • Queensland relies on local council planning rules, which differ by area
  • Council planning schemes determine if and how STR is permitted in each zone
  • Body corporate by-laws can restrict short-term letting
  • Confirm the current requirements with the relevant local council before listing

Cairns Regional Council Council Rules

Registration: Required — the local council (Queensland has no state STR register)
Night cap: No council cap
Permit required: No — Whether STR needs approval depends on the Cairns planning scheme and the zone — confirm with the council before listing.
Levy: No council-specific levy
Max penalty: Varies by local council — check the council planning scheme
Fire compliance: Required (smoke alarms, extinguisher, evacuation plan)

Strata Restrictions

Many managed resort-style apartments operate as STR by default.

Dual Income / Secondary Dwelling

Allowed
Max floor area: 80 sqm
Min lot size: 400 sqm
Approval pathway: Building approval (accepted development)
Est. build cost: $110,000 - $190,000
Applicable zones:
Low Density ResidentialLow-Medium Density Residential
  • Cyclone-rated construction required
  • Lower build costs than southern states

Key Zoning Information

Zone CodeZone NameSTR PermittedDual Income
LDRLow Density ResidentialYesYes
TCTourist CommercialYesNo

Frequently Asked Questions

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