Short-term rental registration in Milwaukee

Operating a short-term rental (STR) in Milwaukee requires following city regulations designed to balance tourism growth and neighborhood well-being. This guide provides a step-by-step process to register your short-term rental in Milwaukee.

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Types of Short-Term Rental Licenses in Milwaukee

1. Owner-Occupied Short-Term Rental License

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• For properties where the owner resides on-site.

• Allows rental of rooms or the entire home when the owner is temporarily absent.

• Must be the owner’s primary residence.

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2. Non-Owner-Occupied Short-Term Rental License

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• For properties where the owner does not live on-site.

• Subject to specific zoning and operational rules.

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Key Requirements for STR Registration in Milwaukee

1. Zoning Compliance

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• Verify the property is in a zone that permits STRs using the Milwaukee Zoning Map.

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2. Tourist Rooming House License

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• Required for any rental of fewer than 29 consecutive days.

• Apply through the City of Milwaukee License Division.

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3. Room Tax Registration

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• Register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to collect and remit the Room Tax (7%).

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4. Safety and Health Compliance

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• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Provide fire extinguishers and comply with local health and safety codes.

• Ensure the property passes safety inspections.

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5. Neighbor Notification

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• Notify neighboring property owners of your intent to operate an STR.

• Provide contact details for concerns or complaints.

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Application Process for a Short-Term Rental in Milwaukee

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

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• Check property zoning through the Milwaukee Zoning Portal.

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Step 2: Apply for a Tourist Rooming House License

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• Submit an application to the City of Milwaukee License Division.

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Step 3: Register for Room Tax

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• Register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to collect and remit room taxes.

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Step 4: Schedule Safety Inspection

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• Schedule and pass a property safety and health inspection.

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Step 5: Submit Documentation

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• Proof of ownership or lease.

• Inspection certificate.

• Neighbor notification confirmation.

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Step 6: Pay Licensing Fees

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• Owner-Occupied License: $100 annually

• Non-Owner-Occupied License: $200 annually

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Step 7: Display License Number

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• Display your license number on all listings (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.).

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Penalties for Non-Compliance

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Non-compliance with Milwaukee's STR regulations can result in:

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• Fines: Up to $1,000 per violation.

• License Suspension or Revocation: For repeated violations.

• Legal Action: Potential legal proceedings for ongoing non-compliance.

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How Lodge Compliance Can Help

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Lodge Compliance simplifies the short-term rental registration process in Milwaukee by offering:

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• Permit Application Assistance: Step-by-step guidance through the licensing process.

• Compliance Monitoring: Stay informed of local regulation changes.

• Operational Support: Implement safety and health standards for full compliance.

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Ready to operate your Airbnb legally in Milwaukee? Request a Demo to learn how Lodge Compliance can help you secure your license and stay compliant.

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Operate Legally and Maximize Your Earnings

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Milwaukee’s short-term rental market offers excellent income potential. By following the city’s regulations and maintaining high operational standards, you can build a successful and legally compliant vacation rental business.