Short-term rental permit rules in Saint Paul, MN — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Saint Paul requires an annual STR Host License ($42) under Chapter 379. Non-owner-occupied properties need a Fire Certificate of Occupancy. Operating unlicensed is a $300 fine.
Since December 2, 2017, short-term rentals (stays under 30 consecutive days) have been allowed throughout the City of Saint Paul, but every host must obtain a Short-Term Rental Host License from the Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI). The annual license fee is $42. Applications are submitted through PAULIE, the city online permitting platform. Required documentation includes proof of property ownership or a lease agreement, Secretary of State registration or a signed sole proprietor statement, an ACORD Certificate of Insurance with at least $300,000 aggregate liability coverage (or confirmation of exclusive use of Airbnb, VRBO, or HomeAway), a Workers Compensation certificate, and an Affidavit of Compliance. Non-owner-occupied properties must have a current Fire Certificate of Occupancy on file; owner-occupied single-family homes and duplexes are exempt from the Fire Certificate requirement. Booking platforms that facilitate STR transactions must also obtain a separate Short-Term Rental Platform License. Operating an unlicensed STR is a petty misdemeanor carrying a $300 fine. STRs cannot be advertised unless fully compliant with city, state, and federal law. Licenses expire one year from issuance and must be renewed annually.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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