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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Topeka, KS

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term residential rentals are classified as Type I (owner-occupied, ≤5 guest bedrooms), Type II (non-owner-occupied, ≤5 guest bedrooms), and Type III (6+ guest bedrooms). Transient guest stay is limited to no more than 28 consecutive days. Owner-occupied means owner resides ≥182 days/year; Type II/III have zoning and separation rules (e.g., any Type II in R, M-1, or M-1A districts established after March 1, 2021 must be ≥500 feet from another Type II or III). Parking, sign, and event limits apply; Type I/III require 1 guest parking space per 2 bedrooms and events restrictions; guest rooms must not contain cooking facilities.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete and submit the City of Topeka Short Term Rental application to planning@topeka.org. 2) Pay the $125 application fee via the city PayOnline portal and provide required documents such as site plans or parking information. 3) The Director reviews the application for compliance with TMC 18.225.010 and issues a permit valid for two years; adjacent property owners are notified upon issuance.

Official Resources

Official Topeka STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Topeka, KS?
Short-term residential rentals are classified as Type I (owner-occupied, ≤5 guest bedrooms), Type II (non-owner-occupied, ≤5 guest bedrooms), and Type III (6+ guest bedrooms). Transient guest stay is limited to no more than 28 consecutive days. Owner-occupied means owner resides ≥182 days/year; Type II/III have zoning and separation rules (e.g., any Type II in R, M-1, or M-1A districts established after March 1, 2021 must be ≥500 feet from another Type II or III). Parking, sign, and event limits apply; Type I/III require 1 guest parking space per 2 bedrooms and events restrictions; guest rooms must not contain cooking facilities.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Topeka?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Topeka. 1) Complete and submit the City of Topeka Short Term Rental application to planning@topeka.org. 2) Pay the $125 application fee via the city PayOnline portal and provide required documents such as site plans or parking information. 3) The Director reviews the application for compliance with TMC 18.225.010 and issues a permit valid for two years; adjacent property owners are notified upon issuance.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Topeka?
1) Complete and submit the City of Topeka Short Term Rental application to planning@topeka.org. 2) Pay the $125 application fee via the city PayOnline portal and provide required documents such as site plans or parking information. 3) The Director reviews the application for compliance with TMC 18.225.010 and issues a permit valid for two years; adjacent property owners are notified upon issuance.

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: March 2026 · Suggest a correction