Detroit, MI Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

Detroit Code Chapter 8 Article XV (the Rental Ordinance) requires every dwelling unit rented to a non-owner — long-term or short-term — to be registered with the City, pass an inspection-based Certificate of Compliance, and pay annual rental registration fees. The City's Property Maintenance Division enforces inspections. ADUs rented for periods of less than 30 days are also 'transient accommodations' under Detroit Code Chapter 18 and must collect and remit the Detroit Hotel-Motel Tax (currently 2% of the room rate) in addition to Michigan's 6% Use Tax on rooms. Detroit has not adopted a separate STR licensing ordinance comparable to Chicago or San Francisco — meaning the rental of an ADU as an Airbnb is regulated through the general rental registration system plus tax collection, not through a separate STR permit. Local zoning still applies — a dwelling unit operated as a hotel/motel is generally a different use class under Chapter 50 and may require a variance. Recorded deed restrictions in some historic districts (Indian Village, Boston-Edison, etc.) may also prohibit short-term occupancy beyond the City's rules.