Duluth, Minnesota, a city known for its beautiful views of Lake Superior, has seen a rise in the popularity of short-term rentals such as Airbnb. As more property owners turn to short-term rentals for additional income, the city has implemented various regulations to manage this growing industry.
Understanding these regulations is crucial for current and prospective Airbnb hosts in Duluth. This blog post will explore the current regulations, their impact, and the resources available for compliance.
Overview of Short-Term Rental Regulations in Duluth
Duluth’s short-term rental regulations aim to balance the interests of residents, tourists, and property owners. The city categorizes short-term rentals into two main types: Type I and Type II.
Type I: Owner-Occupied Rentals
Type I rentals are properties where the owner resides on-site and rents out a portion of their home, such as a room or a separate unit. These rentals are subject to less stringent regulations compared to Type II rentals. Key requirements for Type I rentals include:
- Registration: Property owners must register their short-term rental with the city. The registration process ensures that the property meets all safety and zoning requirements.
- Occupancy Limits: There are limits on the number of guests that can stay at the property at any given time. Typically, the number of guests is limited to two per bedroom.
- Safety Requirements: Owners must ensure that the rental property meets all local safety codes, including functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
Type II: Non-Owner-Occupied Rentals
Type II rentals are properties where the owner does not reside on-site and rents out the entire property. These rentals face more rigorous regulations to ensure they do not negatively impact the neighborhood. Requirements for Type II rentals include:
- Special Use Permit: Owners must obtain a special use permit from the city, which involves a more detailed application process and may require approval from the city council.
- Zoning Compliance: The property must be located in a zoning district that permits short-term rentals. Some residential zones may restrict or prohibit Type II rentals.
- Neighborhood Notification: Owners must notify neighboring property owners about their intent to operate a short-term rental. This notification allows neighbors to voice any concerns during the permitting process.
- Annual Inspections: The property must pass an annual inspection to ensure ongoing compliance with safety and zoning regulations.
