Based on the provided content, here is a comprehensive guide to short-term rental regulations in Jonesboro, Arkansas:

Short-Term Rental Investment Guide: Jonesboro, Arkansas

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Jonesboro, AR?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The city has established a regulatory framework that permits STR operations through proper licensing and compliance procedures. In April 2019, the City Council passed Ordinance O-EN-025-2019, which amended Chapter 42, Article VI of the Code of Ordinances to remove the requirement for owner-occupied short-term rentals and expanded zoning permissions for STR operations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Jonesboro

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

Before purchasing or operating an STR, verify that your property is located in an eligible zoning district. According to the 2019 ordinance amendment, short-term residential rentals are permitted in:

• Residential zones: RS-1 through RS-8
• Residential zones: R-1, R-2, and R-3

Step 2: Obtain Required Permits and Licenses

1. Short-Term Rental Application: Submit the city's official STR application to Planning & Zoning
2. Privilege License: Required for business operations
3. Home Occupation Permit: May be required depending on the property setup

Step 3: Complete the Application Process

• Email applications to Planning2@Jonesboro.org
• Submit required documentation (proof of ownership, insurance, etc.)
• Pay applicable fees

Step 4: Ongoing Compliance

• Maintain current licensing and registration
• Comply with safety and operational requirements
• File required tax reports and remittances

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Required Documents:

• Short-Term Rental Application (PDF) - Available from Planning & Zoning
• Privilege License Application (PDF) - Required for business operations
• Home Occupation Permit (PDF) - For home-based operations
• Proof of property ownership
• Insurance documentation
• Safety compliance certificates

Permits and Licenses:

1. Short-Term Rental Permit - Primary operating license
2. Privilege License - Business license required by city
3. Home Occupation Permit - Additional permit if operating from residence
4. Conditional Use Permit - May be required in certain zoning districts

Guidelines to Follow:

• Safety Standards: Properties must meet current fire safety codes
• Occupancy Limits: Based on property size and bedroom count
• Noise Regulations: Must comply with city noise ordinances
• Parking Requirements: Adequate parking must be provided

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations (Jonesboro):

• Zoning: STRs permitted in R-1 through R-3 and RS-1 through RS-8 districts
• Owner-Occupancy: Not required (removed in 2019 ordinance amendment)
• Application Process: Email-based submission to Planning2@Jonesboro.org
• Permit Display: Permit numbers must be displayed in listings and on property

County-Level Regulations:

No specific Craighead County regulations were identified in the provided content. City regulations appear to govern STR operations within Jonesboro city limits.

State-Level Regulations (Arkansas):

• Definition: STRs are typically defined as lodging for less than 30 consecutive days
• State Tax Rate: 9.5% total state taxes
  • 6.5% Sales & Use Tax
  • 1.0% Short-Term Rental Tax
  • 2.0% State Tourism Tax
• Local Taxes: Additional local taxes may apply
• Registration: No statewide registration requirement; handled at local level
• Tax Collection: Operators must collect and remit taxes from guests

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Jonesboro Planning & Zoning Department

Director of Planning and Zoning:
Derrel Smith
Email: derrel.smith@jonesboro.org

Physical Address:
300 S. Church Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401

Phone: 870-932-0406
Fax: 870-336-3036

Planning Administrative Assistant:
Cassara Painter
Email: cpainter@jonesboro.org

Senior Planner:
Anik Gouala
Email: agouala@jonesboro.org

Planner II:
Shun Cornes
Email: scornes@jonesboro.org

Planning Technician:
Michelle Crawford
Email: mcrawford@jonesboro.org

Application Submission:
Email: Planning2@Jonesboro.org

General City Information:
Phone: 870-932-1052
Website: www.jonesboroar.gov

Links to Source Pages

Government Sources:

• City of Jonesboro Planning & Zoning Department - Primary authority for STR permits and applications
• Short Term Rental Application (PDF) - Official city application form
• Privilege License Application (PDF) - Business license application
• Home Occupation Permit (PDF) - Required for home-based operations
• City of Jonesboro Code of Ordinances - Complete city regulations
• Ordinance O-EN-025-2019 (PDF) - Original STR ordinance amendment

State Resources:

• Arkansas STR Regulations Overview - State-level tax and regulatory information
• Lodge Compliance - Jonesboro Local Jurisdiction - Local compliance resources

Additional Resources:

• Apply for Permit Online Portal - Digital permit application system
• City Fee Schedule (PDF) - Current permit and license fees

Important Notes for Investors

1. Current Compliance: The 2019 ordinance removed owner-occupancy requirements and expanded zoning permissions, making STR investment more accessible in Jonesboro.

2. Tax Obligations: Plan for the 9.5% state tax burden (6.5% sales tax + 1% STR tax + 2% tourism tax) plus any local taxes.

3. Contact First: Always contact the Planning & Zoning department before purchasing property for STR use to verify zoning compliance and current requirements.

4. Documentation: Maintain all permits, licenses, and inspection records on-site for potential city review.

5. Insurance: Ensure comprehensive liability and property insurance coverage as required by city regulations.

This guide provides the essential framework for operating a compliant short-term rental in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Always verify current requirements with the local authorities before making investment decisions.