Ann Arbor, MI Short-Term Rentals: Host Presence Rule (2026)
Key Facts
- License type
- Principal residence homestay
- Presence rule
- Resident on-site during entire stay
- Enforced via
- Sworn statement, license revocation
- Max fine
- $500 per day of violation
- Effective date
- March 1, 2021
Summary
Ann Arbor's homestay short-term rental license requires at least one permanent resident to remain on-site in the dwelling unit throughout the entire guest stay, not just before or after.
(b)Principal residence homestay means an activity whereby the permanent resident(s) host visitors in their homes, for compensation, for periods of 30 consecutive days or less, while at least one of the permanent residents lives on-site in the dwelling unit, throughout the visitors' stay.(c)Principal residence whole house means an activity whereby the permanent resident(s) host visitors in their homes, for compensation, for periods of 30 consecutive days or less, while a residential dwelling unit is not occupied by the owner of record while the guest is present. UDC means Unified Development Code (Chapter 55 of Ann Arbor City Code).
(Ord. No. 20-24, § 1, 9-8-20, eff. 3-1-21; Ord. No. 21-13, § 1, 5-3-21)
7:652. - Short-term rental unit license and fee.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26 Update 4).
Full Breakdown
Under the city's short-term rental ordinance, a 'principal residence homestay' is defined as hosting paying guests while at least one permanent resident lives on-site in the dwelling unit throughout the visitors' stay. That on-site presence is what separates a homestay license from a 'principal residence whole house' license, which covers a host renting out the entire home while away. The city enforces the distinction through the sworn statement filed with each application and can revoke a license under section 7:655 for misrepresenting which type applies.
Violations & Fines
Misrepresenting homestay status on the license application is grounds for license revocation and a civil infraction fine of up to $500 per day under section 7:655.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to stay home during an Ann Arbor homestay rental?
What if I'm licensed as a homestay but leave during a guest's stay?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ann Arbor
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