Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Suttons Bay, Michigan, but with significant restrictions and permit requirements. It is important to note that Suttons Bay consists of two separate jurisdictions with different regulations:

1. Village of Suttons Bay - Has implemented a strict cap system with currently 57 active permits and a maximum limit of 45 permits (reached through attrition only)
2. Suttons Bay Township - Operates under a more permissive system allowing up to 150 permits annually on a first-come, first-served basis

Operating without a permit is a violation of local ordinances in both jurisdictions.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business

Village of Suttons Bay

New permits are currently unavailable - The village has capped permits at 45, and currently has 57 issued permits. New permits will only become available through attrition (when existing permits are not renewed). Prospective operators should:

1. Monitor the current permit list for availability
2. Contact the village office at 231.271.3051 to inquire about waitlist procedures
3. Ensure property compliance with zoning requirements
4. Prepare required documentation for when permits become available

Suttons Bay Township

The township operates on a first-come, first-served basis with up to 150 annual permits:

1. Application Period: Submit applications beginning October 1 through February 28 each year
2. Processing: All applications (renewal and first-time) processed starting March 1 regardless of submission order
3. Fee: $200 annually, payable to Suttons Bay Township
4. Validity: Permits valid January 1 through December 31

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Village of Suttons Bay

Required Documents:

• Short-Term Rental Application (when permits available)
• Short-Term Rental Renewal Application (for existing permit holders)
• Property compliance documentation
• Proof of insurance (specific requirements per Ordinance 27)

Key Guidelines:

• Permits are non-transferable (invalid if property is sold)
• Annual renewal required
• Property must comply with zoning regulations
• Bed and breakfast operations may fall under different regulations

Suttons Bay Township

Required Documents:

• Short-Term Rental Permit Application
• Short-Term Rental Renewal Application
• Application Policy
• $200 annual fee

Key Guidelines:

• Permits apply only to Residential Districts
• Non-transferable between property owners
• Entire dwelling unit rentals only (room rentals fall under bed and breakfast guidelines)
• Annual renewal window: October 1 - February 28

Specific Regulations

Village of Suttons Bay

Definitions and Scope:

• Short-term rental: Any occupancy of dwelling unit for commercial use less than 30 consecutive days in exchange for consideration
• Ordinance 27 governs all aspects of STR operations
• Applies to entire dwelling units only

Operational Requirements:

• Maximum occupancy as specified in permit
• Compliance with all local safety codes
• Maintenance of property standards
• Guest conduct regulations

Restrictions:

• No new permits until current count reaches 45 through attrition
• Permits non-transferable upon property sale
• Zoning compliance required

Suttons Bay Township

Definitions and Scope:

• Short-term rental: Any dwelling unit leased for period less than 30 days
• Applies only to entire dwelling unit rentals
• Separate Bed and Breakfast guidelines for room rentals

Operational Requirements:

• Annual permit renewal required
• Compliance with residential district requirements
• Maximum occupancy limits

Capacity Limits:

• Maximum 150 permits annually
• First-come, first-served issuance
• Separate allocation for different property types

County-Level Considerations (Leelanau County)

While STR regulation primarily occurs at the municipal level, county services include:

• Building safety inspections through Leelanau County Building Safety Department
• Sheriff's Department enforcement for disorderly conduct
• Animal control for pet-related complaints

Contact Information

Village of Suttons Bay

Village Office:

• Phone: 231.271.3051
• Email: suttonsbay@suttonsbayvillage.org
• Address: 420 N Front Street, P.O. Box 395, Suttons Bay, MI 49682
• Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Zoning Administrator:

• Email: zoning@suttonsbayvillage.org
• Phone: 231.271.3051

24/7 STR Hotline:

• Phone: 231.715.5419

Enforcement Contacts:

• Leelanau County Sheriff: 231.256.8800 (disorderly conduct/trespassing)
• Animal Control: 231.256.8800 (pet complaints)

Suttons Bay Township

Township Office:

• Phone: 231-271-2722, ext. 3
• Email: zoning@suttonsbaytownship.gov
• Address: 8527 E. Government Center Dr., Suttons Bay MI 49682

24/7 STR Hotline (Host Compliance, Inc.):

• Phone: (800) STR-HELP (800-787-4357)

Zoning Administrator:

• Phone: 231-271-2722, ext. 3
• Email: zoning@suttonsbaytownship.gov

Sources and Links

Village of Suttons Bay

• Village STR Page
• Short-Term Rental Ordinance 27
• STR Application Form
• STR Renewal Application
• Current Permit List
• STR Ordinance Discussion Report (2022)

Suttons Bay Township

• Township STR Page
• STR Permit Application
• STR Renewal Application
• Application Policy
• B&B Guidelines
• STR Ordinance No. 3 of 2023

Important Considerations for Investors

1. Jurisdiction Verification: Always confirm whether your property lies within Village of Suttons Bay or Suttons Bay Township boundaries, as regulations and permit availability differ significantly.

2. Waitlist Situation: Village permits are currently unavailable due to the cap system, requiring potential operators to wait for attrition-based openings.

3. Market Dynamics: The village's restrictive cap (45 permits) versus township's generous allocation (150 permits) creates different investment opportunities and challenges.

4. Compliance Costs: Factor in annual permit fees ($200 township, village fee TBD), application costs, and potential compliance modifications.

5. Zoning Compliance: Both jurisdictions require compliance with residential zoning requirements, which may limit or prohibit STR operations in certain areas.

6. Enforcement: Both jurisdictions actively enforce STR regulations through complaint-driven processes and regular inspections.