Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Rochester, MN

Short-term rentals are regulated: owner-occupied STRs may register (single-family owner-occupied limited to 1 STR unit); non-owner-occupied STRs require a short-term rental certificate and an inspection. Unit caps vary by building type (single-family 1, duplex 2, triplex 2, four-plex 2, multifamily limits and up to 25% of units; reclassification/change-of-use required if more than stated or >25% of units), rentals limited to stays under 30 days, and lodging licenses via Olmsted County are required when structures meet State lodging definitions (e.g., 5+ beds).

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Rochester. 1) Submit the City's Rental Property/Short-Term Rental application via the City online form (Rental Property Application portal) and comply with section 7-9 application requirements; 2) Owner-occupied properties register (registration certificate); non-owner-occupied properties must obtain a short-term rental certificate and pass the required rental/property inspection per chapter 7-9; 3) If requesting more units than allowed or converting >25% of units, apply for change of occupancy/reclassification through Community Development and pay applicable processing fees; obtain Olmsted County lodging license when required.

1) Submit the City's Rental Property/Short-Term Rental application via the City online form (Rental Property Application portal) and comply with section 7-9 application requirements; 2) Owner-occupied properties register (registration certificate); non-owner-occupied properties must obtain a short-term rental certificate and pass the required rental/property inspection per chapter 7-9; 3) If requesting more units than allowed or converting >25% of units, apply for change of occupancy/reclassification through Community Development and pay applicable processing fees; obtain Olmsted County lodging license when required.