Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Saint Charles, MO?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Saint Charles, Missouri, but with significant restrictions and limitations. As of April 15, 2025, the city has lifted its previous moratorium but implemented strict new regulations that severely limit where new STRs can operate. The city is currently at maximum capacity for residential STRs and is not accepting new applications for residentially zoned properties.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Saint Charles

Current Market Status

• Residential Properties: New applications are NOT being accepted as the city has reached its maximum cap of 48 STR units
• Commercial Properties: Still accepting applications within the Extended Historic Preservation District (EHP)

Step-by-Step Process for Commercial Properties:

1. Verify Property Eligibility

   • Confirm your property is commercially zoned
   • Ensure location is within the Extended Historic Preservation District (EHP)
   • Use the City's Interactive Zoning Map for verification

2. Contact City Staff

   • Call Community Development at 636-949-3222 to begin the application process
   • No Conditional Use Permit required for commercial properties in EHP district

3. Obtain Required Permits and Licenses

   • Short-Term Rental Permit (annual renewal required)
   • Business license as applicable
   • Schedule and pass annual safety inspection

4. Implement Required Safety Measures

   • Install mandatory noise monitoring device
   • Ensure proper smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
   • Meet all parking and occupancy requirements

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Mandatory Permits:

• Short-Term Rental Permit (renewed annually)
• Conditional Use Permit (residential properties only - currently not accepting applications)

Required Documentation:

• Proof of property ownership
• Property insurance documentation
• Guest records (must be maintained for 3 years minimum)
• Annual safety inspection reports

Safety Requirements:

• Smoke Alarms: Within and outside every bedroom, one per level
• Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Outside all bedrooms if gas appliances or attached garage present
• GFCI Outlets: Required in bathrooms, kitchen counters, laundry areas, and outdoor locations
• Noise Monitoring Device: Mandatory installation and operation
• Handrails: Required for all steps (indoor/outdoor) with 4+ steps
• Egress Windows: Required for converted bedrooms (specific size requirements apply)

Occupancy Guidelines:

• Maximum 10 occupants per property (unless additional fire safety systems installed)
• Occupancy calculated by bedroom size:
  • 1 occupant = 70 sq ft
  • 2 occupants = 100 sq ft
  • 3 occupants = 150 sq ft
  • Non-bedroom areas = 190 sq ft per occupant

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Location Restrictions:

• Residential STRs: Limited to Extended Historic Preservation District (EHP) only
• Commercial STRs: Only within EHP district boundaries
• Buffer Requirement: 500 feet minimum distance from other existing STRs in residential zones
• Maximum Units: Capped at 0.15% of total housing units (48 units maximum)

Operational Requirements:

• Parking: One off-street parking space per bedroom
• Occupancy: Limited to primary structure only
• Noise Restrictions: No amplified sound outside or audible from property line between 10:00 PM - 10:00 AM
• Guest Management: Owners must ensure guests comply with all local laws and ordinances

Annual Compliance:

• Inspection: Mandatory annual safety inspection (city staff schedules)
• Permit Renewal: Required by end of calendar year
• Record Keeping: Guest information must be maintained for city inspection

Property Tax Considerations:

Contact St. Charles County at 636-949-7900 to verify how STR use may affect property taxes.

Contact Information for Local STR Authority

St. Charles Community Development Department

• Phone: 636-949-3222
• Address: 200 N Second Street, Saint Charles, MO 63301
• Website: www.stcharlescitymo.gov
• STR Specific Page: Short-Term Rentals Information

City Hall Main Number: 636-949-3200

Useful Resources and Source Links

Official City Resources:

• Primary STR Information: https://www.stcharlescitymo.gov/1259/Short-Term-Rentals
• Interactive Zoning Map: City of St. Charles Interactive Map
• STR Location Map: Short Term Rental Interactive Map
• Conditional Use Permit Application: Download Application
• Inspection Guidelines: Short Term Rental Inspection Flyer
• Governing Ordinance: Ordinance #22-104

Additional Resources:

• Compliance Guide: https://www.alertify.io/short-term-rentals-in-saint-charles-missouri-after-june-15-2024/
• Recent News Coverage: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/mo/st-louis/news/2025/04/03/st--charles-short-term-rentals
• Market Analysis: https://www.strprofitmap.com/regulations/MO/saint-charles

Important Considerations for STR Investors

Current Market Reality:

The Saint Charles STR market is extremely restrictive for new entrants. With the city at maximum capacity for residential STRs and new applications suspended, opportunities are limited to commercially zoned properties within the historic district only.

Investment Viability:

• Commercial Properties: May still be viable if located in EHP district
• Residential Properties: Not currently accepting new applications
• Existing STRs: Grandfathered operations continue under current regulations

Compliance Costs:

Factor in costs for mandatory noise monitoring devices, annual inspections, permit fees, and potential property modifications to meet safety requirements.

Future Outlook:

Monitor city council meetings and ordinance updates, as regulations may change. The current cap of 48 units represents a significant reduction from the previous 0.5% limit (approximately 150 units).

Recommendation: Before making any investment decisions, contact the Community Development Department directly at 636-949-3222 to verify current availability and requirements for your specific property situation.