Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Lake Geneva?

**Yes**, Lake Geneva requires a Short-Term Rental License to operate legally. You need to obtain this permit before listing your property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The application process involves submitting required documentation and paying the associated fee, per Chapter 18, Article XII.

What is the TOT tax rate in Lake Geneva?

**8% TOT** is the current room tax rate applicable to short-term rentals in Lake Geneva. You need to collect this tax from your guests and remit it to the Geneva Lake Area Joint Room Tax Commission. Make sure to register with the commission to ensure compliance and proper reporting.

Are short-term rentals allowed in Lake Geneva?

**Yes**, short-term rentals are allowed in Lake Geneva, but are heavily regulated. You need to comply with all local regulations, including obtaining the required Short-Term Rental License and adhering to the 180-night rental cap. Operating without the proper license may result in fines and penalties.

How much does an STR permit cost in Lake Geneva?

**$750** is the fee for the required Short-Term Rental License in Lake Geneva. You need to pay this fee as part of the application process to legally operate a short-term rental within city limits. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with the permitting process, per Chapter 18.

How many nights per year can I rent my property in Lake Geneva?

**180 nights** is the maximum rental period allowed per year for short-term rentals in Lake Geneva. You need to adhere to this night cap to remain compliant with local regulations. Exceeding this limit could result in penalties, so accurate record-keeping is essential for all hosts.

Lake Geneva, WI STR Laws & Regula... | Learn STR by GoStudioM

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Lake Geneva, WI STR Laws & Regula... | Learn STR by GoStudioM

Regulation Details

Eligibility(9)

•Lake Geneva does NOT require the property to be a primary residence. Investment properties are allowed.
•Lake Geneva does NOT allow tenants to host STRs. Only property owners may operate short-term rentals.
•Lake Geneva allows STRs in the following property types: Single-family dwellings, Condominiums.
•Lake Geneva: You can have a co-host or property manager help manage your listing.

Requirements(17)

•Lake Geneva STR warning: Specific occupancy limits: 2 per bedroom plus 2, capped at 10 total guests
•Lake Geneva: You must display your permit/registration number on your listing. Platforms may remove non-compliant listings.
•Lake Geneva, WI: Hosts must report their rental activity quarterly to the city, even if platforms collect taxes.

Application Process(11)

•Lake Geneva STR permit - Step 1: Obtain State Licenses. Secure a Tourist Rooming House License from the WI Dept of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and a Seller's Permit from the WI Dept of Revenue. Time: 2-4 weeks.
•Lake Geneva, WI extended permit requirement: A $250 non-refundable application fee + $500 license fee

Fees & Costs(2)

•Lake Geneva charges a registration fee of $750 (annual).
•Lake Geneva: High annual license fee of $750

Taxes(3)

•Lake Geneva: Room tax (8%) is separate from state sales tax and must be reported quarterly
•Lake Geneva charges a Room Tax of 8%. This applies to stays under 30 days. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax. Note: Airbnb and VRBO generally collect and remit the state and county taxes, but owners are responsible for ensuring the 8% Geneva Lake Area room tax is remitted.

Limits & Restrictions(8)

•Lake Geneva, WI occupancy calculation: 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, not to exceed 10 total. Count your bedrooms to determine your max guest limit.
•Lake Geneva limits STRs to 180 nights per year. This applies to all rentals.
•Lake Geneva enforces quiet hours: 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Safety Requirements(2)

•Lake Geneva requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, fire inspection, posted maximum occupancy, posted emergency contact, Exterior property must be maintained, Off-street parking required.
•Lake Geneva: Fire inspection is mandatory before the license is issued

Penalties(3)

•Lake Geneva enforces the following penalties for STR violations: First offense: $500 to $1,000 per day. Second offense: License revocation. Daily fine: Yes - each day constitutes a separate violation. Permit may be revoked for violations.
•Lake Geneva, WI: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions(3)

•Lake Geneva: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
•Lake Geneva, WI: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
•Lake Geneva exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals (30+ days).

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Regulation Details

Eligibility(9)

Requirements(17)

Application Process(11)

Fees & Costs(2)

Taxes(3)

Limits & Restrictions(8)

Safety Requirements(2)

Penalties(3)

Exemptions(3)

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