Executive Overview

Short-term rentals are allowed in Waverly, IA. The city permits short-term rental operations under its general rental property regulations framework. Unlike many jurisdictions that have implemented separate short-term rental ordinances, Waverly treats short-term rentals as residential rental properties that require the same fundamental permits and compliance measures as traditional long-term rentals.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Waverly

Starting a short-term rental business in Waverly follows a structured process that aligns with the city's rental property requirements:

Step 1: Property Preparation and Zoning Compliance

• Verify your property's zoning classification allows residential rental use
• Ensure the property meets minimum maintenance standards
• Confirm compliance with maximum occupancy requirements
• Prepare the property according to the self-inspection checklist criteria

Step 2: Obtain Required Permits and Designations

• Submit the Rental Housing Registration Application
• Complete and submit the Rental Housing Self-Inspection Checklist
• Pay the registration fee (exact amount not specified in sources)
• Designate a responsible local agent for the property

Step 3: Business Operations Setup

• Register with Iowa Department of Revenue for tax collection obligations
• Implement systems to monitor and comply with occupancy limits
• Establish maintenance protocols to meet city standards
• Create guest communication systems addressing local regulations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Mandatory Documentation

• Rental Housing Registration Application - Required for all rental properties
• Rental Housing Self-Inspection Checklist - Must be completed and submitted with registration
• Application fee - Charged for initial registration (amount not specified in sources)
• Responsible Local Agent Designation - Required as part of the registration process

Renewal Requirements

• Rental Housing Registration Renewal - Due every three (3) years from initial submission
• No fee for timely renewals - Only original registration incurs charges

Supporting Resources

• Lead in Home Brochure (EPA guidance)
• Bremer County brochures for smoke detectors and egress windows
• Rental Housing Handbook from HOME, Inc.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Requirements (Waverly)

Permit Requirements:

• No person may lease, rent, or allow occupancy of a rental unit without first obtaining a rental registration permit
• Properties must be registered before any rental activity begins
• Initial registration includes application, checklist, and fee submission

Operational Standards:

• Properties must maintain minimum maintenance standards including:
  • Upkeep of walkways and handrails
  • Weed and rodent control
  • General property maintenance
• Maximum occupancy levels must be observed (specific limits not detailed in sources)
• Properties must comply with local housing codes and safety standards

Administrative Requirements:

• Responsible local agent must be designated
• Renewal applications required every three years
• Compliance with Chapter 91, Rental Housing Code in City of Waverly Code

Complaint and Enforcement:

• Self-inspection checklist includes city-enforceable items
• Complaint forms available for violations
• City reserves right to enforce minimum standards

County-Level Requirements (Bremer County)

Safety Standards:

• Smoke detector requirements per county brochures
• Egress window standards per county guidelines
• County building and zoning regulations may apply

State-Level Requirements (Iowa)

Tax Obligations:

• 5% state hotel/motel tax applies to short-term rentals
• Registration with Iowa Department of Revenue required for tax collection
• Local taxes may also apply (specific rates not detailed in sources)

Health and Safety:

• Lead paint disclosure requirements for properties built before 1978
• State health and safety codes for rental properties
• Compliance with Iowa landlord-tenant laws

Zoning Considerations

Based on the Waverly Zoning Code, STR operators should verify:

• Property is located in a zoning district that permits residential rental use
• Compliance with district-specific requirements for:
  • Height limits
  • Yard setbacks
  • Parking requirements
  • Building coverage limitations

Contact Information

Primary Local Authority

City of Waverly - Community Development Department

• Website: waverlyia.com/community-development/permit-fees/rental-property-regulations/default.aspx
• Email: zoning@waverlyia.com
• Phone: Not specified in sources

Additional Contacts

Landlord Database Inquiries

• Email: zoning@waverlyia.com (include "Landlord List" in subject line)

Iowa Department of Revenue

• For tax registration and remittance requirements
• Contact information not provided in sources

Links to Source Pages

Primary Regulatory Sources

1. Waverly Rental Property Regulations
2. Waverly City Code
3. Rental Housing Registration Application

Supporting Documentation

4. Rental Housing Self-Inspection Checklist
5. Rental Housing Registration Renewal Form
6. Rental Property Complaint Form

County Resources

7. Bremer County Building/Zoning/Sanitation Brochures
8. Lead in Home Brochure (EPA)

Market Analysis

9. RedAwning Waverly Market Overview (Third-party analysis)

Important Notes for Investors

• Waverly does not appear to have separate short-term rental specific regulations
• Properties operate under general rental property framework
• No permit caps or geographic restrictions identified
• City emphasizes maintenance standards and responsible operation
• Three-year renewal cycle provides operational certainty
• Local agent requirement ensures local accountability

This framework provides a stable regulatory environment for STR investors, with clear pathways to compliance and operation within Waverly's established rental property system.