Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Elkhart Lake, WI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Elkhart Lake, WI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals operating more than 10 nights per year require a Village license, a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House License, and a Village Room Tax Permit. Occupancy is limited by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, and properties must meet specific safety standards including functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors per SPS 321. Proof of insurance and a designated local contact are also required. 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 operating more than 10 nights per year require a Village license, a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House License, and a Village Room Tax Permit. Occupancy is limited by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, and properties must meet specific safety standards including functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors per SPS 321. Proof of insurance and a designated local contact are also required.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Elkhart Lake. 1. File a completed application form with the Village Administrator/Clerk. 2. Submit required documentation, including proof of State Tourist Rooming House License and Room Tax Permit. 3. Pay the required fee ($50 for initial, $25 for renewal). Licenses must be renewed annually by May 1st.

1. File a completed application form with the Village Administrator/Clerk. 2. Submit required documentation, including proof of State Tourist Rooming House License and Room Tax Permit. 3. Pay the required fee ($50 for initial, $25 for renewal). Licenses must be renewed annually by May 1st.

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