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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Northfield, MN

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (defined as rentals <30 consecutive days) are permitted only with a city-issued short-term rental license and only in the zoning districts listed in Chapter 34; licenses are unit-specific, limited to a maximum of ten licenses per person/entity citywide, require listing of license number, maximum occupancy and vehicle limits on public listings, require a conspicuously posted placard with license and contact info, a 24/7 local contact who can respond within 3 hours, and compliance with noise, parking, sanitation, and lodging tax rules; RVs and accessory structures (except compliant ADUs) are prohibited.

How to Obtain a Permit

(1) Complete and submit the City rental license application form provided by the City and pay the license fee set by council; (2) schedule and pass a building inspection (at least 75% of units inspected; no license issued without satisfactory inspection); (3) post required Rental Property Emergency Information placard and comply with lodging tax reporting if not collected by booking platform. A separate license is required for each unit; temporary licenses available under specified conditions.

Official Resources

Official Northfield STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Northfield, MN?
Short-term rentals (defined as rentals <30 consecutive days) are permitted only with a city-issued short-term rental license and only in the zoning districts listed in Chapter 34; licenses are unit-specific, limited to a maximum of ten licenses per person/entity citywide, require listing of license number, maximum occupancy and vehicle limits on public listings, require a conspicuously posted placard with license and contact info, a 24/7 local contact who can respond within 3 hours, and compliance with noise, parking, sanitation, and lodging tax rules; RVs and accessory structures (except compliant ADUs) are prohibited.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Northfield?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Northfield. (1) Complete and submit the City rental license application form provided by the City and pay the license fee set by council; (2) schedule and pass a building inspection (at least 75% of units inspected; no license issued without satisfactory inspection); (3) post required Rental Property Emergency Information placard and comply with lodging tax reporting if not collected by booking platform. A separate license is required for each unit; temporary licenses available under specified conditions.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Northfield?
(1) Complete and submit the City rental license application form provided by the City and pay the license fee set by council; (2) schedule and pass a building inspection (at least 75% of units inspected; no license issued without satisfactory inspection); (3) post required Rental Property Emergency Information placard and comply with lodging tax reporting if not collected by booking platform. A separate license is required for each unit; temporary licenses available under specified conditions.
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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