Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Kenosha, WI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Kenosha, WI, but with restrictions. Establishments must meet City Property Maintenance Code standards and pass an inspection by an authorized housing inspector before a permit is issued. Under county and state rules (ATCP 72), rentals are classified as Tourist Rooming Houses and must comply with health and safety standards for lodging establishments. 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.

Establishments must meet City Property Maintenance Code standards and pass an inspection by an authorized housing inspector before a permit is issued. Under county and state rules (ATCP 72), rentals are classified as Tourist Rooming Houses and must comply with health and safety standards for lodging establishments.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Kenosha. 1. Submit the Yearly Lodging/Rooming House application to the City Clerk with a $250 fee. 2. Schedule and pass an inspection by an authorized housing inspector to ensure the establishment meets all City regulations. 3. Apply for a Tourist Rooming House license through Kenosha County Public Health per state code ATCP 72.

1. Submit the Yearly Lodging/Rooming House application to the City Clerk with a $250 fee. 2. Schedule and pass an inspection by an authorized housing inspector to ensure the establishment meets all City regulations. 3. Apply for a Tourist Rooming House license through Kenosha County Public Health per state code ATCP 72.

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