Michigan has been a popular vacation destination for years, with its picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming small towns. However, with the ongoing pandemic, many travelers are wondering if they can still book a vacation rental in Michigan.
So, is Michigan allowing vacation rentals? Let’s find out.
Executive Orders and Travel Restrictions
Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued several executive orders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. One of these orders was Executive Order 2020-110, which lifted most of the restrictions on travel within the state. This means that people can now travel from one part of Michigan to another without any specific restrictions or requirements.
However, it’s important to note that there are still some travel restrictions in place for people entering Michigan from other states or countries. Executive Order 2020-147 requires travelers coming from states with a high number of COVID-19 cases to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Michigan. This order is subject to change based on the current situation and the number of cases in different states.
Vacation Rental Restrictions
As far as vacation rentals are concerned, there are no statewide restrictions or orders prohibiting them in Michigan. However, individual cities and counties may have their own rules and regulations regarding vacation rentals.
For example, Traverse City – one of Michigan’s most popular tourist destinations – has issued an emergency order that places certain restrictions on short-term rentals. Under this order, only essential workers or people who need housing due to a displacement or quarantine can stay at short-term rentals such as Airbnb and VRBO.
Similarly, Grand Haven has also issued an order limiting short-term rentals to essential workers only until further notice.
Safety Guidelines for Vacation Rentals
While there may not be any statewide restrictions on vacation rentals in Michigan, it’s important for both hosts and guests to follow safety guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued several recommendations for vacation rental hosts and guests, including:
- Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops between each guest’s stay.
- Providing hand sanitizer, soap, and other cleaning supplies for guests.
- Encouraging guests to wear masks and maintain social distancing while in common areas.
- Implementing contactless check-in and check-out procedures.
Conclusion
In summary, Michigan is allowing vacation rentals but there may be some restrictions in certain cities or counties. It’s important for travelers to check with their host or rental company before booking a vacation rental to ensure that they are aware of any local regulations or safety guidelines. By following these guidelines, both hosts and guests can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 while still enjoying a well-deserved vacation in Michigan.