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Detroit, Michigan, has established a regulatory framework that short-term rental hosts must navigate to operate legally and responsibly. Hosting is subject to specific city codes and licensing requirements that seek to balance the benefits of short-term rentals for tourism and supplemental income with neighborhood integrity and public safety. Detroit’s regulatory environment emphasizes proper registration, adherence to zoning laws, and compliance with health and safety standards, ensuring that hosts meet local expectations and legal obligations to protect both themselves and their guests.

Key Regulatory Considerations:

– Licensing and Permits: Short-term rental hosts in Detroit are required to obtain a license through the city’s official channels. This process typically involves an application fee, submission of property details, and compliance with ongoing renewal mandates. The responsible department for these licenses is often the city’s Department of Neighborhoods or a similar regulatory body.

– Primary Residence Requirement: Detroit’s regulations may stipulate that the property used for short-term rentals be the host’s primary residence or impose limits on the number of days a non-primary residence can be rented out. This requirement helps maintain community stability and reduces the risk of housing stock being diverted away from long-term residents.

– Zoning and Location: Specific zoning codes restrict where short-term rentals can operate. Hosts need to verify that their property is situated in a zone permitting such activities, as certain residential or commercial designations may forbid or limit short-term rental use.

– Occupancy, Health, and Safety Standards: The city enforces occupancy limits and mandates essential safety features like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers. These measures ensure guest safety and minimize risks.

– Tax Obligations: Detroit requires collection and remittance of transient occupancy taxes on short-term rentals. Additionally, hosts must be aware of and comply with any applicable city or state sales tax requirements related to their rental income.

– Operational Standards and Enforcement: Advertising practices, noise levels, waste management, and guest behavior are regulated to mitigate negative impacts on neighbors. Non-compliance may lead to penalties including fines or revocation of the rental license.

Due to the detailed nature and periodic updates of these regulations, it is strongly recommended that prospective and current hosts consult official city resources directly. For the most current and legally binding information, property owners should consult the City of Detroit’s Official STR Regulations Page or contact the Detroit Department of Neighborhoods. This will ensure full compliance and a successful hosting experience aligned with local laws.