Registration Rules: Detroit vs Livonia

How do I register a Detroit short-term rental?

Apply for a Certificate of Registration through the BSEED rental property portal, pay the $150 annual rental program fee (single combined fee under the October 29, 2024 amendments to Chapter 8, Article XV), and schedule the 15-point property condition inspection. BSEED issues a Certificate of Compliance valid for three years for residential rental property when the inspection passes, and that certificate must be in place before any occupancy under Detroit City Code Sec. 8-15-82.

Is there a separate Detroit STR license on top of rental registration?

Not as of May 2026. The January 3, 2024 draft Short Term Rental Ordinance would add a dedicated STR license tier above the general rental registration, but that draft has not been adopted by City Council. Until adoption, the Chapter 8, Article XV Certificate of Registration plus Certificate of Compliance is the operative authorization for any Detroit rental, including a vacation rental.

What happens if I buy a registered Detroit rental?

Under Detroit City Code Sec. 8-15-81, when a rental property is sold or transferred to a new owner, the new owner must register the property in their own name. The prior owner's registration does not carry over. Apply with BSEED before offering the property for occupancy and verify that the existing Certificate of Compliance is still valid; otherwise schedule a new inspection.

Do I need to register a single rented room?

If the home is not owner-occupied, yes. Rooming situations and duplex units all require registration under Livonia rules.

How long does registration last?

Registration is continuous but requires renewal each inspection cycle, typically every 2 or 3 years with a passing inspection.