Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Ann Arbor, MI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Ann Arbor, MI, but with restrictions. Principal residence STRs are allowed in residential zones, while non-principal (commercial) STRs are generally prohibited in residential zones unless established before March 1, 2021. Occupancy is limited to 4 persons plus offspring in most districts (6 in multi-family), advertisements must include the license number, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are prohibited from being used as STRs. 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.

Principal residence STRs are allowed in residential zones, while non-principal (commercial) STRs are generally prohibited in residential zones unless established before March 1, 2021. Occupancy is limited to 4 persons plus offspring in most districts (6 in multi-family), advertisements must include the license number, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are prohibited from being used as STRs.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Ann Arbor. 1) Apply and pay the $500 annual fee online through the STREAM portal, providing a sworn statement of principal residency (for principal STRs) and contact details. 2) The City reviews the application within 21 business days; non-principal units must also obtain a Certificate of Compliance and pass a housing inspection. 3) Renew the license annually within 30 days of the anniversary date.

1) Apply and pay the $500 annual fee online through the STREAM portal, providing a sworn statement of principal residency (for principal STRs) and contact details. 2) The City reviews the application within 21 business days; non-principal units must also obtain a Certificate of Compliance and pass a housing inspection. 3) Renew the license annually within 30 days of the anniversary date.

Vrbo is permitted in Ann Arbor, MI 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Ann Arbor 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Ann Arbor. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.