Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Thurman, IA?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Thurman, Iowa. Based on the available evidence, Thurman actively hosts vacation rental properties through platforms like VRBO, with multiple active listings ranging from rustic studios to large lodges. As a small town in Fremont County, Thurman follows Iowa state-level regulations for short-term rentals rather than having restrictive local ordinances.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Thurman

Market Analysis

Thurman presents a viable STR market with diverse property types currently operating:

• Rustic historic buildings ($82-193/night)
• Country sanctuaries with game rooms ($286/night)
• Log cabins and lodge quarters ($541-1,370/night)
• Pet-friendly outdoor properties ($395/night)

The town's proximity to attractions like Arbor Day Farm (12 miles) and Wildwood Golf Course (12.7 miles) provides guest demand drivers.

Property Selection and Setup

1. Property Type: Consider converting existing structures, as evidenced by the "Rustic 1900 building turned cozy studio"
2. Capacity Planning: Properties range from 2-person studios to 28-person lodges
3. Amenity Focus: Game rooms, outdoor spaces, grills, and decks are popular features
4. Pet-Friendly Options: Several successful properties allow pets

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Requirements (Iowa)

Licensing and Permits:

• License Renewals: Hosts must prioritize periodic license renewal if their municipality requires a permit or license
• Local Compliance: Iowa does not use a centralized system for STR regulations; local ordinances vary by location
• Zoning Verification: Check zoning laws as some regions restrict STRs to commercial zones

Insurance Requirements:

• Liability Coverage: Minimum $500,000 property liability insurance required for STR operations
• Purpose: Protects against personal injury and property damage claims
• Safety Standard: Creates safe environment for both hosts and guests

Tax Obligations:

• State Hotel Tax: 5% tax applies to all short-term rentals
• Tax Base: Includes total rental rate plus cleaning services and guest fees
• Filing Requirements: Must file tax returns each reporting period regardless of income level
• Compliance: Apply to both state and local tax authorities

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level (Thurman)

No specific city-level STR ordinances were identified. Thurman operates under state regulations.

County-Level (Fremont County)

Fremont County Board of Supervisors meetings indicate active property management oversight through:

• Nuisance abatement procedures (several cases processed in Thurman)
• Property maintenance standards enforcement
• Local zoning considerations for special use permits

State-Level (Iowa)

1. License Renewal Process: Complex local and state regulations; steps vary by property location
2. Tax Collection and Remittance: State laws specify collection methods and remittance procedures
3. Property Maintenance Requirements: Clear standards established for guest and resident wellbeing
4. Compliance Enforcement: Hosts risk significant fines for non-compliance

Contact Information

Primary Local Authority

Fremont County Board of Supervisors

• Meeting Schedule: Every Wednesday at 9:00 AM
• Location: Fremont County Boardroom, Courthouse
• Phone: Contact through County Auditor's office for specific STR inquiries
• Address: Fremont County Courthouse, Sidney, IA

State-Level Contacts

Iowa Department of Revenue

• Website: revenue.iowa.gov
• Tax Filing: Online portal available for hotel/motel tax remittance
• Phone: Contact state revenue department for tax guidance

Zoning and Building

Fremont County Planning and Zoning

• Contact: Board of Supervisors for zoning inquiries
• Special Use Permits: Contact county engineer for development questions

Links to Source Pages

Primary Regulatory Sources

• Daily Iowan - Iowa Airbnb Laws and Regulations

Local Government Resources

• Fremont County Board of Supervisors Agendas

Market Analysis

• VRBO - Thurman Vacation Rentals

Investment Recommendations for Thurman STRs

Market Opportunities

1. Historic Properties: Leverage Thurman's historic character (1900s buildings)
2. Group Accommodations: Capitalize on larger capacity properties (8-28 guests)
3. Outdoor Tourism: Focus on properties with outdoor amenities
4. Pet-Friendly Focus: Several successful pet-friendly models exist

Compliance Priority Checklist

1. ✅ Obtain minimum $500,000 liability insurance
2. ✅ Register for Iowa hotel tax collection (5% rate)
3. ✅ Verify property zoning allows STR use
4. ✅ Establish tax remittance procedures
5. ✅ Maintain property to established safety standards
6. ✅ Monitor Fremont County nuisance ordinances

Risk Mitigation

• Maintain comprehensive insurance coverage
• Establish regular property maintenance schedules
• Monitor local zoning and regulatory changes
• Develop strong guest screening procedures
• Create emergency response protocols

Note: Thurman's small-town nature and active STR market suggest favorable conditions for investment, with compliance primarily focused on state-level requirements rather than restrictive local ordinances.