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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Walworth County, WI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Walworth County must first obtain a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House license. Properties using private onsite wastewater treatment systems (POWTS) must meet minimum code requirements for the proposed occupancy, which may require a professional inspection if records are not on file. Specific municipal ordinances (e.g., Town of Walworth) may impose additional constraints like 180-day annual caps or minimum stay durations within their boundaries.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House license from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). 2. Submit the Walworth County Short Term Rental Licensing Application along with the required fee ($500 for new licenses, $200 for renewals). 3. Provide documentation of a compliant private septic system (POWTS) if applicable, which may involve a professional inspection and report. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Official Resources

Official Walworth County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Walworth County, WI?
Short-term rentals in unincorporated Walworth County must first obtain a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House license. Properties using private onsite wastewater treatment systems (POWTS) must meet minimum code requirements for the proposed occupancy, which may require a professional inspection if records are not on file. Specific municipal ordinances (e.g., Town of Walworth) may impose additional constraints like 180-day annual caps or minimum stay durations within their boundaries.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Walworth County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Walworth County. 1. Obtain a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House license from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). 2. Submit the Walworth County Short Term Rental Licensing Application along with the required fee ($500 for new licenses, $200 for renewals). 3. Provide documentation of a compliant private septic system (POWTS) if applicable, which may involve a professional inspection and report. Licenses must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Walworth County?
1. Obtain a State of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House license from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). 2. Submit the Walworth County Short Term Rental Licensing Application along with the required fee ($500 for new licenses, $200 for renewals). 3. Provide documentation of a compliant private septic system (POWTS) if applicable, which may involve a professional inspection and report. Licenses must be renewed annually.

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