Forensically verified with 3+ official sources
Short-term rentals in the City of Lake Geneva are heavily regulated under Chapter 18, Article XII, requiring both state and local licensing. Hosts are limited to renting for no more than 180 days per year and must pay an 8% room tax to the Geneva Lake Area Joint Room Tax Commission.
Score: 33 (restrictive)
To host an Airbnb in Lake Geneva, you must first get your Wisconsin state lodging license and a seller's permit. You then apply for a local City permit which costs $750 annually and requires a fire inspection. Keep in mind you can only rent your home for 180 days out of the year, and you must charge an 8% room tax. If you don't live within 25 miles of the city, you have to hire a local manager to handle guest issues.
Permit Required
Yes
Night Limit
180/year
Primary Residence
Not Required
Total Tax Rate
0.1%
Permit Fee
$750
Processing Time
30-60 days
Disclaimer
Regulatory information is AI-researched for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Researched and verified by Learn STR by GoStudioM