Wichita, Kansas

Wichita legalized and regulated short-term rentals through an ordinance effective September 12, 2023, with the Unified Zoning Code amended on September 22, 2023. Short-term rentals are permitted, and each dwelling unit needs an annual Short-Term Rental License from the City Finance Department Express Office. The license is reported at about $225 per year, expires one year after issuance, and cannot be transferred to another person or location. Owners must carry general liability insurance of at least $250,000 per unit. There is no owner-occupancy or primary residence requirement and no annual night cap, though a short-term rental is defined as lodging of 28 days or less. Occupancy is capped at 2 adults per bedroom plus 2 additional adults per unit, excluding studios and efficiencies. On zoning, STRs are allowed in most residential districts including SF-10, SF-5, TF-3, MF-18, and MF-29. Owner-occupied units are permitted by right in qualifying districts, while non-owner-occupied units need administrative permit approval, and neighbors who are notified can protest within two weeks of the approval letter. STRs are not permitted in residential zoning districts in unincorporated Sedgwick County, outside city limits. A Nuisance Party Ordinance holds hosts responsible for disturbances, with quiet hours generally from 10 PM to 7 AM. Operating without registration is a violation carrying fines of $200 to $1,000 per day, and enforcement severity is rated moderate. Lodging carries a 6% transient guest tax plus a 2.75% city tourism fee, on top of state and local sales taxes, and the state’s application of these taxes to platform bookings has had some inconsistencies. Owner-occupied units had to be licensed by March 12, 2024, and units needing zoning approval by September 22, 2024. Confirm current requirements with the city before buying.