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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Manistee, MI

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

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only when registered; STR Overlay parcels are exempt from the numeric cap while areas outside the overlay are limited to 165 STR dwelling units. STRs must meet safety requirements (smoke detectors, CO alarms, posted evacuation map, fire extinguishers), occupancy limits per building/fire codes, carry liability insurance, and maintain a 24-hour local contact person.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete the City of Manistee Short-Term Rental Registration Form and submit it to City Hall or via email. 2) Pay the $100 annual registration fee and the $150 inspection fee. 3) Schedule and pass a safety inspection with the Building Official (required every 3 years) and provide proof of liability insurance.

Official Resources

Official Manistee STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Manistee, MI?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Manistee, MI, but with restrictions. STRs are permitted only when registered; STR Overlay parcels are exempt from the numeric cap while areas outside the overlay are limited to 165 STR dwelling units. STRs must meet safety requirements (smoke detectors, CO alarms, posted evacuation map, fire extinguishers), occupancy limits per building/fire codes, carry liability insurance, and maintain a 24-hour local contact person. 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 Manistee, MI?
STRs are permitted only when registered; STR Overlay parcels are exempt from the numeric cap while areas outside the overlay are limited to 165 STR dwelling units. STRs must meet safety requirements (smoke detectors, CO alarms, posted evacuation map, fire extinguishers), occupancy limits per building/fire codes, carry liability insurance, and maintain a 24-hour local contact person.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Manistee?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Manistee. 1) Complete the City of Manistee Short-Term Rental Registration Form and submit it to City Hall or via email. 2) Pay the $100 annual registration fee and the $150 inspection fee. 3) Schedule and pass a safety inspection with the Building Official (required every 3 years) and provide proof of liability insurance.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Manistee?
1) Complete the City of Manistee Short-Term Rental Registration Form and submit it to City Hall or via email. 2) Pay the $100 annual registration fee and the $150 inspection fee. 3) Schedule and pass a safety inspection with the Building Official (required every 3 years) and provide proof of liability insurance.
Is Vrbo legal in Manistee, MI?
Vrbo is permitted in Manistee, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Manistee?
Short-term rental hosts in Manistee 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 Manistee?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Manistee. 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