St. Louis County, MO Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Family def
- §1003.020
- Unrelated cap
- 3 persons
- Kitchens
- Max 2
Summary
STR occupancy in unincorporated St. Louis County is effectively governed by the family definition in SLCRO §1003.020: an individual or related persons, or up to 3 unrelated persons living as a single non-profit housekeeping unit using no more than 2 kitchens.
Sec. 1003.020. — A family is defined as an individual or two (2) or more persons related by blood or marriage or a group of not more than three (3) persons who need not be related by blood or marriage living together and subsisting in common as a single non-profit housekeeping unit using not more than two (2) kitchens.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Traffic: Supplement 80).
Full Breakdown
Without a dedicated STR ordinance, the §1003.020 family definition controls. The 3-unrelated-person cap means a single STR booking with 4 unrelated adults can technically be in violation. Enforcement is rare unless triggered by neighbor complaint. Many cities layer their own occupancy rules. Clayton requires conditional use review for any rental with >4 unrelated occupants.
Violations & Fines
Notice of Violation; up to $1,000/day; cease-occupancy order on continuing violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a group of 4 college students rent my house?
Does the cap apply to a family of 6?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Louis County
Compare St. Louis County to another location·View the Missouri short-term rentals overview
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