Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Houghton Lake, MI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Houghton Lake, MI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are limited to a maximum stay of 29 consecutive days for the same occupant. Occupancy is capped at two times the number of bedrooms plus four individuals, not to exceed 12 total guests. All rentals must have a designated local agent residing within 60 minutes of the unit. 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.

Short-term rentals are limited to a maximum stay of 29 consecutive days for the same occupant. Occupancy is capped at two times the number of bedrooms plus four individuals, not to exceed 12 total guests. All rentals must have a designated local agent residing within 60 minutes of the unit.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Houghton Lake. Submit a completed Short-Term Rental Registration form to the Township Hall with a $75 application fee and $500 annual license fee. Include proof of ownership, a drawing of the premises, and photographs documenting compliance with the Blight Ordinance. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Submit a completed Short-Term Rental Registration form to the Township Hall with a $75 application fee and $500 annual license fee. Include proof of ownership, a drawing of the premises, and photographs documenting compliance with the Blight Ordinance. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Vrbo is permitted in Houghton Lake, 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 Houghton Lake 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 Houghton Lake. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.