Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Vilas County, WI

County-level Tourist Rooming Houses (TRHs) require an annual permit with occupancy limited by the property’s sanitary (septic) permit (generally two persons per bedroom); R-1 (single-family) zoned TRHs must be rented for seven or more consecutive days; resident agent within Vilas County or within 40 miles required; off-street parking required at one space per two occupants plus one; posted property rules and compliance with Vilas County Public Health license, state sellers permit, and any municipal permits/room tax required.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Vilas County. 1) Complete and submit Vilas County TRH Permit Application at least 30 days before first rental with owner and resident-agent signatures, a copy of the Vilas County Public Health TRH license (or submitted application), the required property rules, and payment (Initial permit $300; Renewal $200; Revision $80). 2) Zoning & Planning issues permit (mailed to applicant); permits expire Jan 31 the year after issuance and are non-transferable (new owner must apply). 3) Obtain separate Vilas County Public Health TRH license and State sellers permit/PRAT registration and any municipal licenses or room-tax registrations as required.

1) Complete and submit Vilas County TRH Permit Application at least 30 days before first rental with owner and resident-agent signatures, a copy of the Vilas County Public Health TRH license (or submitted application), the required property rules, and payment (Initial permit $300; Renewal $200; Revision $80). 2) Zoning & Planning issues permit (mailed to applicant); permits expire Jan 31 the year after issuance and are non-transferable (new owner must apply). 3) Obtain separate Vilas County Public Health TRH license and State sellers permit/PRAT registration and any municipal licenses or room-tax registrations as required.