Des Moines requires a rental certificate for short-term rentals (stays under 30 days) and sets occupancy limits based on the number of bedrooms. Only one STR is permitted per single-family detached structure, and at least one guest must be 21 or older.
Under Des Moines Municipal Code Chapter 60 (Housing Code), short-term rentals are defined as dwelling units rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days for compensation. Rental certificates are valid for five years. Occupancy is limited to a single party, with the maximum number of guests tied to the bedroom count as documented in submitted floor plans. Only one STR per single-household detached structure is allowed. Operators in certain zoning districts must also obtain Board of Adjustment approval. Minimum liability insurance of $500,000 is required.
Operating without a valid rental certificate or exceeding occupancy limits may result in fines and revocation of the rental certificate under Chapter 60 enforcement provisions.
Des Moines, IA
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See how Des Moines's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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