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

Yes, short-term rentals are currently allowed in Flint, Michigan. However, it is crucial to understand that Flint does not currently have specific municipal regulations governing short-term rentals like Airbnb or VRBO. Instead, operators must comply with standard housing and rental regulations, along with Michigan state tax requirements. This relatively unregulated environment presents both opportunities and risks for investors, as future legislation could significantly impact operations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Flint, MI

Starting an STR business in Flint follows a streamlined process due to the current lack of city-specific regulations:

1. Property Selection and Zoning Verification

• Verify your property's zoning classification with the City of Flint Planning Department
• Confirm the property meets basic health and safety standards
• Ensure adequate parking (minimum one space per two guests)
• Consider proximity to attractions like the Flint Institute of Arts, Crossroads Village, or downtown cultural districts

2. Business Registration and Insurance

• Register your business with the State of Michigan
• Obtain a Michigan Treasury Account Number for tax collection
• Secure comprehensive liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage recommended)
• Consider additional coverage for property damage and business interruption

3. Property Preparation

• Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Place fire extinguishers in appropriate locations
• Ensure emergency egress routes are clearly marked
• Verify electrical and plumbing systems meet safety standards
• Install high-speed Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces (highly sought after by business travelers)

4. Platform Registration and Marketing

• Create accounts on major platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com)
• Invest in professional photography and staging
• Develop comprehensive house rules and guest policies
• Set up dynamic pricing strategies using market data tools

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Current Requirements (2025):

City of Flint: No specific STR licensing or permits currently required

State of Michigan Requirements:

• Michigan Treasury Account Number for tax collection and remittance
• Registration for 6% use tax on accommodations

Insurance Requirements:

• Liability insurance (minimum $1 million recommended)
• Property insurance coverage
• Consider short-term rental specific policies

Safety Compliance:

• Smoke detector installation and testing
• Carbon monoxide detector installation
• Fire extinguisher placement
• Emergency egress planning and posting
• Basic health and safety standards compliance

Anticipated Requirements for 2026:

Based on regulatory trends, investors should prepare for:

• Mandatory Short-Term Rental Operating License ($200 initial, $150 renewal fees)
• Annual safety inspections
• Background checks for property managers
• Neighborhood notification processes
• Enhanced compliance monitoring

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Flint (Current):

• No specific STR regulations in place
• Standard housing and rental regulations apply
• Properties must meet basic health and safety standards
• Local zoning restrictions may apply depending on property classification

Genesee County:

• 5% accommodation tax on short-term rentals (in addition to state taxes)
• County-level zoning and safety regulations may apply
• Standard property maintenance requirements

State of Michigan:

• 6% use tax on total rental amount (including cleaning and service fees)
• Standard landlord-tenant laws for rental periods under 30 days
• State safety and building code compliance requirements

Upcoming State Legislation (2025): Three House Bills (HB 5138, HB 5139, HB 5140) were introduced to enable local governments to levy voter-approved excise taxes on short-term rentals. This legislation would allow cities like Flint to generate revenue to manage STR-related community costs, though it requires voter approval to implement.

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Flint - Primary Contacts:

City Hall:

• Address: 1101 S. Saginaw St., Flint, MI 48502
• Phone: (810) 766-7342
• Website: www.cityofflint.com/

Planning Department:

• Phone: (810) 766-7342, ext. 3235
• Email: planning@cityofflint.com
• Responsible for zoning verification and property classification

Genesee County:

County Administration:

• Address: 1101 Beach St., Flint, MI 48502
• Phone: (810) 257-3055
• Website: www.gc4mi.com/

Treasurer's Office:

• Phone: (810) 257-3054
• Handles accommodation tax collection and compliance

State of Michigan:

Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA):

• Website: www.michigan.gov/lara
• Phone: (517) 284-7000

Department of Treasury:

• Website: www.michigan.gov/treasury
• Phone: (517) 373-3200
• Responsible for sales tax collection and registration

Michigan Realtors Association:

• Phone: (517) 372-8899
• Website: www.mirealtors.com/
• Advocacy and policy information for rental property owners

Important Notes for Investors

Regulatory Monitoring: Given the evolving nature of STR regulations in Michigan, investors should regularly monitor:

• City of Flint official communications
• Genesee County Board meetings and zoning updates
• Michigan state legislative developments
• Industry publications and legal updates

Risk Factors: The current regulatory environment presents both opportunities and risks:

• Opportunity: Minimal regulatory barriers to entry
• Risk: Potential for sudden regulatory changes as seen in other Michigan communities
• Recommendation: Build compliance infrastructure early to adapt quickly to regulatory changes

HOA Considerations: If purchasing in a community with homeowners association rules, additional restrictions may apply regardless of city regulations.

Source Links

1. Flint Short-Term Rental Laws 2026: A Complete Guide
2. Vacation Rental Management in Flint, Michigan
3. House Bills Would Give Local Governments Option to Tax Short-Term Rentals
4. Check the Status of Short-Term Rentals in These Lake Michigan Communities

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available information as of 2025. Short-term rental regulations are subject to change. Investors should consult with local authorities and legal professionals for the most current requirements before making investment decisions.