Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Gary, IN

Short-term rentals are permitted under City legislation (C.P.O. 2022-121); owner-occupied short-term rentals are authorized to operate in residential areas per the City registration framework, while non-owner-occupied short-term rentals require special-use/zoning approval (special use variance) before operation. STR operators are subject to the same safety, nuisance, fire/building inspections, and General Business License requirements that apply to other rental businesses.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Gary. 1) Apply online via the City of Gary Short-Term Rental Registration Permit portal (ViewPoint/OpenGov). 2) The application is reviewed by the Zoning Department (and other departments as applicable—Police background check, Fire inspection if public/serves customers, Building inspection if required), and Finance collects license/permit fees per standard General Business License procedures. 3) Obtain required General Business License and any necessary special-use variance for non-owner-occupied properties; provide proof of primary residence when required for GBL renewals.

1) Apply online via the City of Gary Short-Term Rental Registration Permit portal (ViewPoint/OpenGov). 2) The application is reviewed by the Zoning Department (and other departments as applicable—Police background check, Fire inspection if public/serves customers, Building inspection if required), and Finance collects license/permit fees per standard General Business License procedures. 3) Obtain required General Business License and any necessary special-use variance for non-owner-occupied properties; provide proof of primary residence when required for GBL renewals.