What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in St. Louis, Missouri?

Short-term rentals (STRs), such as those offered through Airbnb and VRBO, have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering travelers unique accommodations and hosts the opportunity to earn extra income. However, the rise of STRs has also brought about concerns related to safety, neighborhood disruption, and housing affordability.

In response, cities across the country have implemented regulations to govern the operation of STRs. St. Louis, Missouri, is no exception. This article will delve into the specifics of St. Louis's STR regulations, including licensing requirements, documentation needs, tax implications, and enforcement efforts.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in St. Louis

In November 2023, St. Louis passed its first-ever short-term rental law, which went into effect no later than November 6, 202413. The new regulations require a permit to operate a short-term rental in the city, with a maximum of four permits per person. Operators must pay a $150 fee for each permit application, and permits may only be issued to individuals, not LLCs.

Short-term rental marketplaces, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, are prohibited from completing bookings for properties without permit numbers. Marketplaces must also delist properties that have had their permits revoked.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in St. Louis

Under the new law, short-term rental operators in St. Louis must acquire a city-issued permit for each property they operate13. Properties that have received tax-increment financing for improvements are ineligible to operate as short-term rentals. The law also limits the percentage of units within a multi-unit building that can operate as STRs. STR owners in areas zoned for single-family residential use will be required to go through public conditional use hearings to apply for a permit.

Required Documents for St. Louis Short Term Rentals

Operators in St. Louis need to provide specific documents to comply with the short-term rental regulations. These include the city-issued permit for each property, proof of payment for the permit application fee, and any other documentation required by the city authorities13.

St. Louis Short Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental hosts in St. Louis are subject to state sales and lodging taxes, as well as the city's hotel-motel room tax. Hosts are responsible for collecting these taxes from their guests and remitting them to the appropriate tax authorities13. While platforms like Airbnb collect some taxes, hosts are accountable for ensuring all taxes are collected and remitted, even if the platform does not handle them.

St. Louis-wide Short Term Rental Rules

The city of St. Louis has implemented various rules to regulate short-term rentals effectively. These rules include a minimum stay requirement of two nights to discourage parties, limitations on the percentage of units in multi-unit buildings that can operate as STRs, and the designation of an agent available 24/7 to address any issues promptly. The city also enforces penalties for violations, with permits being revoked for repeated infractions13.

Does St. Louis Strictly Enforce STR Rules? Is St. Louis Airbnb Friendly?

St. Louis has taken significant steps to enforce and regulate STR rules to address safety concerns and maintain neighborhood integrity. The city's approach to Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms is aimed at ensuring compliance with regulations and holding operators accountable. While the rules may seem stringent, they are essential for maintaining order and safety within the community. Hosts in St. Louis are expected to operate within the established guidelines to avoid penalties and permit revocation45.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in St. LouisTo start a short-term rental business in St. Louis, follow these steps:

• Familiarize yourself with the city's short-term rental regulations.
• Obtain a city-issued permit for each property you intend to operate.
• Pay the required permit application fee for each property.
• Ensure compliance with tax requirements for short-term rentals.
• Designate an agent who can respond to any issues in person within an hour, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Who to Contact in St. Louis about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For inquiries regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in St. Louis, you can contact the St. Louis City Building Division or the Office of the Mayor. Contact information can be found on the official city website or by calling the provided phone numbers23.

What do Airbnb Hosts in St. Louis on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Reddit: Users on Reddit have expressed mixed opinions about the local regulations in St. Louis. Some appreciate the efforts to maintain safety and order, while others find certain rules restrictive.

Bigger Pockets: Hosts on Bigger Pockets have shared experiences of navigating the regulations in St. Louis. Some find the rules manageable and necessary, while others have faced challenges in compliance but acknowledge the importance of regulation for the community's well-being.

In Conclusion St. Louis has implemented a comprehensive set of regulations to govern short-term rentals within its city limits. These rules aim to ensure safety, maintain neighborhood integrity, and promote fair housing practices. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, hosts can operate their short-term rental businesses successfully while contributing positively to the St. Louis community.