Host Presence Rule: Columbus vs Indianapolis
How do host presence rule rules compare between Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN?
Indianapolis has fewer restrictions than Columbus.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Columbus's short-term rental ordinance in CCC Chapter 597 and CCC §3367 requires every STR operator to obtain an annual license, list a local responsible party, and disclose whether the listing is owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied at registration.
View full Columbus rules →Indianapolis, IN
Marion County
Indianapolis cannot require hosts to live on site at a short-term rental because Indiana law expressly preempts owner-occupancy mandates. Both hosted and unhosted rentals are allowed citywide subject to registration.
View full Indianapolis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| License | Annual required | - |
| City code | CCC Chapter 597 | - |
| Responsible party | 60-minute response | - |
| Tax | Hotel excise applies | - |
| Owner-occupied | Disclosed at filing | - |
| Statute | - | IC 36-1-24-8 |
| Owner-occupancy | - | Cannot be required |
| Unhosted rentals | - | Allowed citywide |
| HOA covenants | - | Privately enforceable |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Do I need to live at my Columbus Airbnb?
No. Both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs are permitted, but you must license the property, designate a local responsible party, and meet all safety and tax requirements.
What happens if I rent without a license in Columbus?
Per-night fines, possible cease-and-desist orders, hotel-tax back assessment, and delisting from booking platforms once the city flags the property publicly.
Indianapolis FAQ
Can Indianapolis require me to live at my STR?
No. Indiana Code 36-1-24-8 explicitly preempts cities from limiting STRs to owner-occupied properties. Hosted and unhosted rentals are treated equally under city registration rules.
Do hosted rentals get easier registration?
No, there is one registration process for all STRs. The city tracks hosted versus unhosted status for data purposes, but fees and requirements are the same.
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