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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Madison, IN

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Non-owner-occupied STRs are regulated, while owner-occupied primary residences are exempt. Requirements include an occupancy limit of two people per bedroom, compliance with local nuisance/noise/maintenance ordinances, and potential liability for state sales or innkeeper's taxes.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. File an annual permit application with the Administrator for each parcel, including a description of marketing/advertising, occupancy limits, and unit type. 2. Pay the initial permit fee (no fees for renewals unless revoked). 3. The permit is issued within 30 days of a complete application; a site plan is required if a building permit is needed or prior to occupancy.

Official Resources

Official Madison STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Madison, IN?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Madison, IN, but with restrictions. Non-owner-occupied STRs are regulated, while owner-occupied primary residences are exempt. Requirements include an occupancy limit of two people per bedroom, compliance with local nuisance/noise/maintenance ordinances, and potential liability for state sales or innkeeper's taxes. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Madison, IN?
Non-owner-occupied STRs are regulated, while owner-occupied primary residences are exempt. Requirements include an occupancy limit of two people per bedroom, compliance with local nuisance/noise/maintenance ordinances, and potential liability for state sales or innkeeper's taxes.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Madison?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Madison. 1. File an annual permit application with the Administrator for each parcel, including a description of marketing/advertising, occupancy limits, and unit type. 2. Pay the initial permit fee (no fees for renewals unless revoked). 3. The permit is issued within 30 days of a complete application; a site plan is required if a building permit is needed or prior to occupancy.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Madison?
1. File an annual permit application with the Administrator for each parcel, including a description of marketing/advertising, occupancy limits, and unit type. 2. Pay the initial permit fee (no fees for renewals unless revoked). 3. The permit is issued within 30 days of a complete application; a site plan is required if a building permit is needed or prior to occupancy.
Is Vrbo legal in Madison, IN?
Vrbo is permitted in Madison, IN under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Madison?
Short-term rental hosts in Madison are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Madison?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Madison. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction