Short-term rental permit rules in Des Moines, IA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Des Moines requires short-term rental operators to obtain a rental certificate and board of adjustment approval before operating. STRs are defined as commercial lodging for less than 30 consecutive days. Minimum $500,000 liability insurance is required.
Des Moines defines a short-term commercial rental as the use of a household unit for commercial lodging for less than 30 consecutive days. All operators must obtain a rental certificate from the city and receive approval from the Board of Adjustment. This is a conditional use process requiring a public hearing. Operators must carry minimum liability insurance of $500,000 covering bodily injury and property damage. The property must meet all building, fire, and housing code requirements. The operator or a designated local contact must be available 24/7 during guest stays. Advertising an STR without proper permits is a violation.
Operating without a permit is a municipal infraction. Fines up to $625 per day of violation. The city can issue cease-and-desist orders.
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See how Des Moines's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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