Overview: STR Allowability in Keosauqua, IA

Short-term rentals are likely allowed in Keosauqua, Iowa, as no specific prohibitions were found in the reviewed municipal code. However, investors must comply with general business licensing, building codes, and zoning requirements. The city maintains a comprehensive permitting system and building codes, but no explicit short-term rental ordinance was identified in the current documentation.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Keosauqua

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Property Acquisition & Zoning Verification

   • Confirm property zoning allows短期 rental activity
   • Review the Keosauqua Zoning Map (available on city website)
   • Verify compliance with residential use requirements

2. Business Registration

   • Register business with Van Buren County
   • Obtain necessary tax identification numbers
   • Consider registering with Iowa Secretary of State if operating as LLC/corporation

3. Permit Acquisition

   • Apply for Building Permit (if renovations required)
   • Obtain Business License/Peddlers Permit (if required)
   • Secure any necessary fire safety approvals

4. Compliance Setup

   • Install required smoke detectors and safety equipment
   • Ensure property meets Iowa Health & Safety Codes
   • Set up tax collection systems (sales tax, local option taxes)

5. Insurance & Financial Planning

   • Secure short-term rental insurance coverage
   • Establish accounting systems for tax compliance
   • Set up business banking accounts

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses & Guidelines

City-Level Requirements:

Building Permits:

• Building Permit Application
• Required for any structural changes, renovations, or improvements
• Submit detailed plans and specifications
• Permit fees apply (contact City Hall for current rates)

Business Licensing:

• Peddlers Permit
• May be required for rental operations
• Contact City Hall to determine applicability

Property Standards:

• Must comply with 2024 Keosauqua City Code
• City Code Document

County-Level Requirements:

• Business registration with Van Buren County
• Compliance with county ordinances
• Property tax registration

State-Level Requirements:

• Iowa Sales Tax Registration (6% state rate)
• Local option tax compliance (up to 2% additional)
• Iowa Business Tax ID
• Compliance with Iowa Health & Safety Codes

Specific Regulations by Jurisdiction

City of Keosauqua:

• Zoning Compliance: Verify rental use is permitted in residential zones
• Building Codes: Must meet all state and local building standards
• Fire Safety: Compliance with fire codes required
• Parking: Adequate parking must be provided per city standards
• Noise Ordinances: Standard residential noise regulations apply
• Property Maintenance: Must maintain property standards per city code

Van Buren County:

• No specific STR ordinances identified in current documentation
• General county ordinances apply regarding:
  • Floodplain management (Ordinance #2015-1)
  • Wastewater treatment systems (Ordinance #96-1)
  • Alcohol compliance (Ordinance #2023-4) - if applicable

State of Iowa:

• Sales Tax: 6% state sales tax on lodging
• Local Option Taxes: Additional taxes may apply up to 2%
• Zoning Authority: Cities maintain primary zoning control
• Health & Safety: Must comply with state health department regulations
• Business Registration: Required for all commercial operations
• Insurance: Property and liability insurance recommended/required

Contact Information

Primary City Contacts:

Keosauqua City Hall

• Address: 201 Main Street, Keosauqua, IA 52565
• Phone: 319-293-3536
• Email: citykeo@netins.net
• Website: https://www.keosauqua.com/city-resources

For Permits & Building:

• Contact City Hall for building permit applications
• Building inspections arranged through city office

County Contacts:

Van Buren County Government

• Address: 406 Dodge Street, Keosauqua, IA 52565
• Website: http://vanburencoia.org/
• Phone: Contact through main county office

Key County Departments:

• County Assessor: https://vanburen.iowaassessors.com/
• County Treasurer: For property tax inquiries
• County Recorder: For business registrations

State Contacts:

Iowa Department of Revenue

• Website: https://revenue.iowa.gov/
• Phone: 515-281-3114
• For tax registration and compliance

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

• Customer Service: 515-725-8200
• For health and safety regulations

Links to Source Pages

• Keosauqua City Resources
• Van Buren County Ordinances
• Keosauqua Zoning Map
• Building Permit Application
• 2024 Keosauqua City Code
• Peddlers Permit

Important Notes for Investors

1. Due Diligence Required: Verify zoning and permitting requirements directly with City Hall before property acquisition
2. Tax Compliance: Iowa's 6% sales tax plus local option taxes must be collected and remitted
3. Insurance Essential: Standard homeowners insurance typically doesn't cover short-term rentals
4. HOA Considerations: Check for homeowner association restrictions if applicable
5. Neighbor Relations: Small town dynamics require strong community relationships
6. Regulatory Monitoring: Stay informed about potential future STR-specific regulations

This guide provides a framework for STR operations in Keosauqua, but specific requirements should be confirmed with local authorities before investing. The absence of specific STR ordinances suggests a relatively business-friendly environment, though compliance with general business and property regulations remains essential.