Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Madison, WI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Madison, WI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals must be the host's primary dwelling for at least 12 months prior to operation. If the operator is not present during the rental, operation is capped at 30 days per licensing year; if present, there is no limit. Maximum occupancy is the lesser of twice the number of legal bedrooms or 12 guests. 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 must be the host's primary dwelling for at least 12 months prior to operation. If the operator is not present during the rental, operation is capped at 30 days per licensing year; if present, there is no limit. Maximum occupancy is the lesser of twice the number of legal bedrooms or 12 guests.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Madison. 1. Obtain a Dane County TRH license and a City Transient Room Tax permit. 2. Submit the ZTRHP application packet (including residence affidavit, floor plans, and $300 fee) via the City Licenses & Permits Portal. 3. Complete a mandatory home visit/inspection by Building Inspection staff before final approval and payment of the $100 annual fee.

1. Obtain a Dane County TRH license and a City Transient Room Tax permit. 2. Submit the ZTRHP application packet (including residence affidavit, floor plans, and $300 fee) via the City Licenses & Permits Portal. 3. Complete a mandatory home visit/inspection by Building Inspection staff before final approval and payment of the $100 annual fee.

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