Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Black Hawk County, IA

All short-term rentals must be registered and permitted prior to occupancy. In Cedar Falls, properties must meet hard-surface parking requirements and specify maximum occupancy; in Waterloo, registration is required for any non-domicile rental unit. Periodic safety inspections are mandatory (every 3 years in Cedar Falls; annually in Waterloo).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Black Hawk County. 1. Submit a completed Residential Rental Property Application along with supplemental materials (floor plans, property sketch, and photos) to Public Safety Services. 2. Pay the base registration fee (e.g., $250 in Cedar Falls). 3. Schedule and pass a safety inspection by the Fire Division to receive the permit, which must be renewed every three years.

1. Submit a completed Residential Rental Property Application along with supplemental materials (floor plans, property sketch, and photos) to Public Safety Services. 2. Pay the base registration fee (e.g., $250 in Cedar Falls). 3. Schedule and pass a safety inspection by the Fire Division to receive the permit, which must be renewed every three years.