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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Racine County, WI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (tourist rooming houses) are permitted in City of Racine residential, office, and business zoning districts but only when the unit is the proprietor’s primary residence and rentals are for fewer than 29/30 consecutive days. Operators must meet public-health and safety requirements (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguisher, proper egress), parking on hard surface per code, and maintain litter/refuse controls; annual inspections are required.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Obtain a Wisconsin seller’s permit. 2) Submit the City of Racine Short Term Rental / Tourist Rooming House Permit Application and Room Tax registration to the Department of Customer Service and pay required fees (approx. $623 initial). 3) Schedule and pass a joint Building/Fire/Public Health inspection by contacting Environmental Health at 262-636-9203.

Official Resources

Official Racine County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Racine County, WI?
Short-term rentals (tourist rooming houses) are permitted in City of Racine residential, office, and business zoning districts but only when the unit is the proprietor’s primary residence and rentals are for fewer than 29/30 consecutive days. Operators must meet public-health and safety requirements (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguisher, proper egress), parking on hard surface per code, and maintain litter/refuse controls; annual inspections are required.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Racine County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Racine County. 1) Obtain a Wisconsin seller’s permit. 2) Submit the City of Racine Short Term Rental / Tourist Rooming House Permit Application and Room Tax registration to the Department of Customer Service and pay required fees (approx. $623 initial). 3) Schedule and pass a joint Building/Fire/Public Health inspection by contacting Environmental Health at 262-636-9203.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Racine County?
1) Obtain a Wisconsin seller’s permit. 2) Submit the City of Racine Short Term Rental / Tourist Rooming House Permit Application and Room Tax registration to the Department of Customer Service and pay required fees (approx. $623 initial). 3) Schedule and pass a joint Building/Fire/Public Health inspection by contacting Environmental Health at 262-636-9203.

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