Minnesota Short-Term Rental Rules: A Comprehensive Guide

Quick Answer: Minnesota Short-Term Rental Essentials

Operating a short-term rental (STR) in Minnesota requires understanding these essentials before listing:

No statewide STR license exists. Minnesota has not enacted a statewide registration or licensing framework specific to short-term rentals. The Minnesota Legislature has debated the idea, but as of mid-2025, no such law has passed.

State sales tax applies to every booking. Minnesota imposes its 6.875% statewide sales tax on lodging, including STRs (Minn. Stat. §297A.61, subd. 3(g)). This tax is mandatory, regardless of the booking platform.

Local rules govern almost everything else. Zoning, permits, registration fees, occupancy caps, parking, noise, and safety inspections are all set at the city or county level. Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and tourist-heavy counties like Cook and Crow Wing have distinct ordinances.

Your action items before you list:

1. Confirm your property's zoning classification with your city or county.
2. Apply for any required local STR permit or business license.
3. Register with the Minnesota Department of Revenue for sales tax collection.
4. Determine whether any local lodging tax applies and how to remit it.
5. Check whether your