Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Submission Checklist

• A completed short-term-vacation rental application
• Copy of valid homeowners insurance policy with a minimum of $500,000 liability insurance on the property
• A digital floor plan (example)
• A background check from the Columbus Police Department
• The fee for a background check is $20.00 each.
• Background checks are required for the homeowner, applicant, and the 24/7 contact person.
• Background check must be done less than 30 days prior to the date of submission to our office.
• Applicants should contact the Columbus Police Department directly to obtain the background check.
• If background check reveals felonies within the last ten (10) years or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude within the last five (5) years, the application will not be accepted for processing.
• If the applicant is leasing the property to use as a short-term-vacation rental, a lease signed by both parties is required and the lease must state that it can be used for a short-term-vacation rental.
• Proof of neighbor notification in accordance with section 4.9.6 of the UDO.
• A completed certificate of occupancy application

Once all required documentation is submitted to our office an inspection of the property will be done prior to approval.
A non-refundable application fee in the amount of $40.00 is required.

Note

Every house/unit you intend to use for a Short Term Rental, must obtain a separate permit. Each house/unit will be assessed the $40 short-term rental permit fee. If you submit multiple houses at one time, you only have to complete one background check.

Once you have a Certificate of Occupancy approved from Inspections & Code, you will need to go by the Business License Office to obtain a business license for Short Term Vacation Rental.