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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Sturgeon Bay, WI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Tourist Rooming Houses (STRs) are dwelling units rented for less than 30 days. Owners must reside within a 90-minute driving distance of the rental or provide a valid contract with a local management company. Operators must maintain proof of insurance and hold both a Wisconsin DATCP license and a Door County Tourism Zone permit.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Obtain a Door County Tourism Zone Commission transient rental permit via their portal. 2) Submit the City of Sturgeon Bay Tourist Rooming House License Application with a $100 fee, proof of insurance, and state DATCP license. 3) Undergo city staff review (Clerk, Police, Fire, Community Development) for issuance; licenses expire annually on June 30.

Official Resources

Official Sturgeon Bay STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Sturgeon Bay, WI?
Tourist Rooming Houses (STRs) are dwelling units rented for less than 30 days. Owners must reside within a 90-minute driving distance of the rental or provide a valid contract with a local management company. Operators must maintain proof of insurance and hold both a Wisconsin DATCP license and a Door County Tourism Zone permit.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Sturgeon Bay?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Sturgeon Bay. 1) Obtain a Door County Tourism Zone Commission transient rental permit via their portal. 2) Submit the City of Sturgeon Bay Tourist Rooming House License Application with a $100 fee, proof of insurance, and state DATCP license. 3) Undergo city staff review (Clerk, Police, Fire, Community Development) for issuance; licenses expire annually on June 30.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Sturgeon Bay?
1) Obtain a Door County Tourism Zone Commission transient rental permit via their portal. 2) Submit the City of Sturgeon Bay Tourist Rooming House License Application with a $100 fee, proof of insurance, and state DATCP license. 3) Undergo city staff review (Clerk, Police, Fire, Community Development) for issuance; licenses expire annually on June 30.
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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