Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Washington Island, WI

Short-term rentals (STRs) are defined as residential dwellings rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days. Key constraints include a limit of 10 nights per year for unlicensed rentals, a requirement for the owner or a designated agent to be located on Washington Island, mandatory smoke/CO detectors, quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., and occupancy limits based on septic (POWTS) capacity or two persons per bedroom.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Washington Island. 1. Obtain a State of Wisconsin DATCP Tourist Rooming House License and a Door County Tourism Zone Commission (DCTZC) Lodging Permit. 2. Submit a Town STR license application including proof of state/county permits, liability insurance, floor/site plans, and designated agent certification. 3. Pay the town-stipulated fee and ensure the property meets operational standards (smoke/CO detectors and island-based agent).

1. Obtain a State of Wisconsin DATCP Tourist Rooming House License and a Door County Tourism Zone Commission (DCTZC) Lodging Permit. 2. Submit a Town STR license application including proof of state/county permits, liability insurance, floor/site plans, and designated agent certification. 3. Pay the town-stipulated fee and ensure the property meets operational standards (smoke/CO detectors and island-based agent).