Host Presence Rule: Dearborn vs Detroit
How do host presence rule rules compare between Dearborn, MI and Detroit, MI?
Dearborn has fewer restrictions than Detroit.
Dearborn, MI
Wayne County
Wayne County does not impose a countywide host-presence requirement for short-term rentals; municipalities like Detroit, Dearborn, and Livonia set their own rules under Michigan Public Act 2024-12, which limits but does not ban STR ordinances.
View full Dearborn rules →Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Detroit Ord. 2018-08 distinguishes hosted from unhosted short-term rentals. When the operator is present at the property during the guest's stay, no annual night cap applies, but registration with the Buildings Department is still mandatory.
View full Detroit rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dearborn | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| County rule | No host-presence mandate | - |
| State law | PA 2024-12 | - |
| Local control | Cities and townships | - |
| Detroit | Hosted vs whole-home tiers | - |
| Host must be on-site | - | Entire booking duration |
| Annual cap | - | None for hosted |
| Registration | - | BSEED, annually |
| Tax remittance | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dearborn FAQ
Does Wayne County require me to live on site during STR stays?
No. Wayne County has no countywide host-presence rule. Check your specific city or township ordinance, since Detroit, Dearborn, Livonia, and others regulate STRs locally.
Can my township ban unhosted Airbnbs entirely?
Not outright. Michigan PA 2024-12 limits full bans in residential zones, but townships can require permits, occupancy limits, and inspections that effectively constrain unhosted operations.
Detroit FAQ
Does a hosted stay still need a permit?
Yes. Detroit requires every STR operator, hosted or unhosted, to register annually with BSEED, prove primary residency, and provide a 24/7 contact.
What counts as 'on-site' for hosted bookings?
The host must physically reside in the dwelling overnight during the guest stay. Brief errands are fine; multi-day absences convert the booking to unhosted.
Compare other topics
See how Dearborn and Detroit compare on other ordinance categories.
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