Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Alpena, MI?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Alpena, MI. The City of Alpena operates a comprehensive Rental Registration Program that specifically includes Airbnb and VRBO properties. The city recognizes the importance of the rental housing market and has established a regulatory framework that accommodates both long-term and short-term rental operations, ensuring minimum property standards are met while supporting diverse housing opportunities.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Alpena

Step 1: Property Acquisition and Initial Assessment

• If purchasing a non-rental property intended for short-term rental use (including Airbnb/VRBO), the property must be registered and inspected before any occupancy can take place
• If purchasing an existing rental property that will continue as a rental (including short-term rental), the new owner has 30 days from purchase to re-register with the city's rental registration program at no cost
• Current valid certificates stay with the property, simplifying transitions for existing STR operations

Step 2: Zoning Verification

• Verify proper zoning for your intended STR use before registering
• This requirement is particularly important for new two-family or multi-family rental properties
• Contact the Building Division to confirm your property's zoning allows short-term rental operations

Step 3: Local Agent Designation (If Applicable)

• If you reside outside Alpena County and more than twenty miles from the City of Alpena, you must designate a local agent
• This agent will serve as your representative for regulatory matters and guest communications
• Ensure your local agent understands their responsibilities and is prepared to act on your behalf

Step 4: Registration and Inspection Process

• Complete the rental registration program requirements
• Schedule and pass required property inspection
• Obtain your rental certificate before listing or operating

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Required Elements:

1. Property Registration with the City's Building Division
2. Property Inspection and approval
3. Zoning Compliance Verification (especially for multi-unit properties)
4. Local Agent Designation (if owner lives outside Alpena County + 20 miles)
5. Valid Rental Certificate (must remain current and posted)

Documentation Process:

• Registration must be completed before occupancy for new STR properties
• 30-day registration window for existing rental property purchases
• No-cost re-registration for existing valid certificates when properties change ownership
• Renters can verify property registration status by contacting Building Division staff

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Alpena Regulations:

• Inclusive Coverage: STR platforms (Airbnb, VRBO) are explicitly covered under the rental registration program
• Inspection Requirements: Properties must meet minimum housing standards before occupancy
• Zoning Compliance: STR use must be consistent with property zoning designation
• Certificate Validity: Valid certificates transfer with property ownership
• Local Agent Requirement: Mandatory for non-local property owners
• Property Type Coverage: Applies to single-family, two-family, and multi-family rental properties

Alpena Township Considerations:

• Separate Jurisdiction: Alpena Township (unincorporated areas) operates under different zoning regulations
• Township Zoning Ordinance: Contains specific definitions and regulations for various housing types
• Township STR Regulations: Separate from city requirements; consult township officials for unincorporated area properties

State-Level Michigan Regulations:

• Generally Permissive: Michigan state law generally allows short-term rentals
• Local Regulation Authority: Cities and townships retain authority to regulate STR operations
• Safety and Housing Standards: State minimum standards may apply in addition to local requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact:

City of Alpena Building Division

• Phone: 989-354-1762
• Email: Contact via phone for specific inquiries
• Location: City Hall, 208 N. First Avenue, Alpena, MI 49707

City Hall General Information:

• Phone: 989-354-1700
• Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Address: 208 N. First Avenue, Alpena, MI 49707

Additional Resources:

• Website: www.alpena.mi.us
• Building Department: Visit in-person during business hours
• Property Verification: Staff can verify registration status and zoning compliance

Links to Source Pages

1. City of Alpena Rental Registration Program: www.alpena.mi.us/news_detail_T6_R549.php
2. True North Radio Network Coverage: www.truenorthradionetwork.com/news/local/alpena-s-rental-registration-program-includes-airbnb-vrbo/article_b8722751-5781-56e7-b44c-0a1bd7ab4d5d.html
3. City Website Building Department: www.alpena.mi.us/departments/building_department/index.php
4. Alpena Township Zoning (for reference): cms7files.revize.com/alpenatwpmi/Alpena%20Township%20Draft%20Zoning%20Ordinance%201-14-20.pdf

Important Considerations for STR Investors

Market Entry Strategy:

• Alpena's explicit inclusion of Airbnb and VRBO in rental regulations demonstrates a welcoming attitude toward STR operations
• The no-cost re-registration policy for existing valid certificates provides investment protection
• Local agent requirement ensures continued regulatory compliance for out-of-area owners

Compliance Framework:

• Pre-occupancy inspection requirement protects both operators and guests
• Zoning verification prevents regulatory conflicts before investment
• Property-specific certificate system allows for transferable operational rights

Due Diligence Recommendations:

1. Verify property zoning allows STR use before purchase
2. Confirm inspector availability and timing for pre-occupancy requirements
3. Establish local agent relationships if residing outside the specified geographic area
4. Review certificate transfer requirements when acquiring existing STR properties

Alpena, MI provides a clear, investor-friendly regulatory environment for short-term rental operations, with explicit accommodation of major STR platforms and reasonable compliance pathways for new and existing operators.