Are Vacation Rentals Banned in Michigan?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning to take a vacation in Michigan and are thinking about renting a property, you may be wondering if vacation rentals are currently banned in the state. The short answer is no, they are not.

However, there have been some recent changes in legislation that affect vacation rental owners and renters. Let’s take a closer look.

What is a Vacation Rental?

Before we dive into the current regulations, let’s define what we mean by “vacation rental.” In general, this term refers to a property that is rented out to travelers for short-term stays – typically less than 30 days. These properties can range from apartments and condos to houses and cabins.

The Current Regulations

In 2018, the Michigan legislature passed a law that regulates vacation rentals across the state. This law requires all vacation rental owners to register their properties with the local government and obtain a permit. Additionally, owners must collect and remit taxes on their rental income.

While this law doesn’t ban vacation rentals outright, it does add some additional requirements for property owners. Those who fail to comply with these regulations could face fines or other penalties.

Local Regulations

It’s also worth noting that some local governments in Michigan have enacted their own regulations regarding vacation rentals. For example, some cities may require additional permits or inspections beyond what is required at the state level.

If you’re planning to rent a vacation property in Michigan, it’s important to check with both state and local authorities to ensure that you’re complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

The COVID-19 Pandemic

Of course, it’s impossible to discuss travel regulations without mentioning the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. At the time of writing this article (September 2021), Michigan has not implemented any statewide bans on vacation rentals due to COVID-19 concerns.

However, travelers should be aware that individual property owners may have their own policies regarding COVID-19 safety measures. It’s important to communicate with the owner or property manager prior to booking to ensure that you’re comfortable with their policies.

In Conclusion

In summary, vacation rentals are not banned in Michigan, but there are regulations in place that require property owners to register their properties and comply with certain requirements. Additionally, some local governments may have additional regulations in place. As always, it’s important to do your research and ensure that you’re following all applicable laws and guidelines when renting a vacation property in Michigan.