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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Dent County, MO

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

In the City of Salem, vacation rentals are restricted by zoning; a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is required in residential districts. Occupancy is limited to two adults per bedroom plus two additional adults, and one off-street parking space must be provided per guest room. Operators must also maintain safety equipment (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers) and remain in good standing with Dent County tourism tax remittance.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a vacation rental license application to the City Clerk and, if in a residential zone, apply for a Conditional Use Permit. 2. Schedule and pass a safety inspection by the Building Inspector to ensure compliance with occupancy and safety standards. 3. Obtain a Missouri Tax ID and a Dent County Merchants License ($25) and remit the 2% Tourism Tax to the County Collector.

Official Resources

Official Dent County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Dent County, MO?
In the City of Salem, vacation rentals are restricted by zoning; a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is required in residential districts. Occupancy is limited to two adults per bedroom plus two additional adults, and one off-street parking space must be provided per guest room. Operators must also maintain safety equipment (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers) and remain in good standing with Dent County tourism tax remittance.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Dent County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Dent County. 1. Submit a vacation rental license application to the City Clerk and, if in a residential zone, apply for a Conditional Use Permit. 2. Schedule and pass a safety inspection by the Building Inspector to ensure compliance with occupancy and safety standards. 3. Obtain a Missouri Tax ID and a Dent County Merchants License ($25) and remit the 2% Tourism Tax to the County Collector.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Dent County?
1. Submit a vacation rental license application to the City Clerk and, if in a residential zone, apply for a Conditional Use Permit. 2. Schedule and pass a safety inspection by the Building Inspector to ensure compliance with occupancy and safety standards. 3. Obtain a Missouri Tax ID and a Dent County Merchants License ($25) and remit the 2% Tourism Tax to the County Collector.

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