Short-Term Rentals

Short-Term Rentals

A short-term rental is a residential dwelling unit or room with a residential unit rented for a limited amount of time, typically on a nightly basis. Web platforms such as Airbnb and HomeAway can be used to help operate short-term rentals. Jefferson City has the following rules and regulations for short-term rental hosts:

Who May Rent?

1. Short-term rentals may only be operated if you are the owner of the subject property.
    • If you are a renter, and wish to operate your rental as a short-term rental, you need authorization from the landowner in writing.
2. Short-term rentals are permitted in all zoning districts. A short-term rental host needs to obtain a business license and is subject to local lodging tax.
    • Visit the Business License Division web page for more information, or call (573) 634-6322
    • Short-term rentals are subject to local lodging tax per Section 17-63 of the City Code. A tax of 7 percent per occupied room per night shall be collected and remitted to the City. Section 17-65 of the Code states that the lodging tax shall be paid to the City monthly. For more information contact the Finance Department at (573) 634-6508. Short-term rental hosts should use the Lodging Tax Form to report taxes. 
    • REMEMBER, in order to get a short-term rental business license you need to comply with the following building and housing standards.
Building and Housing Standards

1. Short-term rentals are only permitted within an existing primary structure residence. Accessory structures, such as a garage, are not permitted to be used for sleeping or accommodation purposes.

2. Number of occupants in a short-term rental.
    • Short-term rental of a residence: No more than 5 unrelated persons or any number of persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption are permitted.
    • Short-term rental of a lodging room: No more than 4 people are permitted in a short-term rental lodging room. Multiple lodging rooms within one residence are not permitted.
3. Signage.
    • One sign, of a maximum size of one square foot, attached to the exterior of the short-term rental is permitted. This sign cannot be lighted or accompanied by any other displays.
4. The property shall not be rented or used for receptions, parties, weddings or similar activities.

5. Parking Requirements.
    • 2 on-site parking spots where on-street parking is permitted.
    • 3 on-site parking spots where on-street is not permitted
6. Fire Safety Requirements.
    • Fire extinguishers in each sleeping room. One in the common area.
    • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in each sleeping room. One of each in the common area.
    • Fire escape plan posted in each sleeping area. One in the common area.
    • Two exits on any level.
    • No hot plates or microwaves allowed in sleeping areas.
If you have any additional questions please contact the Planning Division at (573) 634-6410 or at jcplanning@jeffcitymo.org