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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Wausau, WI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

The City of Wausau’s residential rental registration applies only to dwelling units with lease terms of 30 days or greater. Marathon County classifies short-term platform rentals (Airbnb/VRBO/HomeAway) as 'tourist rooming houses' and requires these establishments to be permitted and inspected annually to ensure health and safety; licensed units must display the license and include the license ID in online advertising.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Contact the Marathon County Health Department Environmental Health (715-261-1900) to discuss the Tourist Rooming House permit process; 2) Schedule and pass an annual health and safety inspection covering items like bedding, room size, and sanitation; 3) Obtain the license, post it conspicuously at the property, and include the permit ID in all online advertisements.

Official Resources

Official Wausau STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Wausau, WI?
The City of Wausau’s residential rental registration applies only to dwelling units with lease terms of 30 days or greater. Marathon County classifies short-term platform rentals (Airbnb/VRBO/HomeAway) as 'tourist rooming houses' and requires these establishments to be permitted and inspected annually to ensure health and safety; licensed units must display the license and include the license ID in online advertising.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Wausau?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Wausau. 1) Contact the Marathon County Health Department Environmental Health (715-261-1900) to discuss the Tourist Rooming House permit process; 2) Schedule and pass an annual health and safety inspection covering items like bedding, room size, and sanitation; 3) Obtain the license, post it conspicuously at the property, and include the permit ID in all online advertisements.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Wausau?
1) Contact the Marathon County Health Department Environmental Health (715-261-1900) to discuss the Tourist Rooming House permit process; 2) Schedule and pass an annual health and safety inspection covering items like bedding, room size, and sanitation; 3) Obtain the license, post it conspicuously at the property, and include the permit ID in all online advertisements.

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