Short-term rental permit rules in Washtenaw County, MI — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Washtenaw County doesn't license short-term rentals — under Michigan's Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3101), its cities and townships do. In Ann Arbor every STR needs city authorization; commercial (non-principal-residence) STRs require a Certificate of Compliance and Housing Code inspection before operating.
Michigan land use runs under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (PA 110 of 2006), so Washtenaw County does not permit STRs countywide — the seat, Ann Arbor, and each township regulate their own. Ann Arbor's Chapter 97 recognizes three STR types: a Non-Principal Residence (commercial) STR, a Principal Residence Homestay, and a Principal Residence Whole House rental. Commercial STRs require a Certificate of Compliance and periodic inspection under the Housing Code; principal-residence STRs do not require inspection. Every operating unit must comply with Ann Arbor's Building Code (Ch. 100) and Housing Code (Ch. 105). Check your specific city or township — rules vary across Ypsilanti, Saline, and the townships.
Operating a commercial STR without a Certificate of Compliance, or in a district where it is prohibited, is a zoning/Housing Code violation enforced by Ann Arbor Community Standards.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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