Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Bay St. Louis?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. The city has implemented a registration requirement for all short-term rental properties as of 2024, with approximately 472 active short-term rental properties currently operating in the city. The city maintains a welcoming stance toward STRs, with officials stating there will be no limits on the number of properties that can operate as short-term rentals.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Bay St. Louis

To establish a short-term rental business in Bay St. Louis, property owners must navigate a straightforward registration process that became effective in 2024. The city's approach is designed to legitimize existing operations while ensuring proper safety standards and regulatory compliance.

The registration process is managed through the city's Building and Zoning Department, with applications becoming available in mid-September 2024. Property owners have until the beginning of 2025 to complete their registration when the ordinance takes full effect. The city has emphasized that this registration requirement will not limit the number of short-term rentals but will ensure they operate properly and safely.

Bay St. Louis has positioned itself as a premier Gulf Coast destination, and the STR registration ordinance is designed to maintain this status while protecting both visitors and property owners. With a current occupancy rate of approximately 55%, the market shows strong potential for investors.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Registration Requirements

• Annual Registration: All short-term rental properties must register with the city
• Registration Fee: $100 annually, payable upon initial registration and each renewal
• Application Timeline: Applications available mid-September 2024, with acceptance beginning October 1, 2024
• Compliance Deadline: Full ordinance enforcement begins January 1, 2025

Application Process

Property owners must submit their registration applications through the Bay St. Louis Building and Zoning Department. The registration process is designed to ensure that short-term rentals meet safety standards and operate in compliance with local regulations.

Safety and Operational Standards

While specific safety requirements have not been detailed in available documentation, the city's emphasis on ensuring rentals are "done properly" suggests that standard safety protocols, insurance requirements, and property maintenance standards will apply.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations

Bay St. Louis has implemented a comprehensive registration system that includes:

• No Quantity Restrictions: Unlike many municipalities, Bay St. Louis does not limit the number of short-term rental properties
• Annual Registration Requirement: All properties must maintain current registration
• Safety Compliance: Properties must meet established safety standards
• Proper Operation Standards: Rentals must be conducted in accordance with city guidelines

County and State Regulations

As Bay St. Louis is located in Hancock County, Mississippi, operators should also ensure compliance with any applicable county regulations. At the state level, Mississippi does not impose specific statewide restrictions on short-term rentals, allowing local municipalities to establish their own regulatory frameworks.

Tax Obligations

Property owners should be aware of potential tax obligations at the local, county, and state levels, including:

• Local occupancy taxes
• State sales tax on rental income
• Property tax considerations
• Income tax implications

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Primary Contact

Bay St. Louis Building and Zoning Department

• Building and Zoning Administrator: Jeremy Burke
• Department: Building and Zoning
• City: Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Additional Resources

For general city information and services:

• City of Bay St. Louis Official Website: www.baysaintlouis.com (standard municipal website)
• City Hall General Information: Contact the main city offices for specific departmental phone numbers and email addresses

Application Submission

Registration applications should be submitted directly to the Building and Zoning Department beginning October 1, 2024. Property owners are encouraged to contact the department directly for specific application procedures and required documentation.

Market Insights and Investment Considerations

Bay St. Louis presents an attractive market for short-term rental investors, with several favorable factors:

• Strong Occupancy Rates: Current 55% occupancy rate indicates healthy demand
• No Quantity Caps: Unlike many destinations, the city places no limits on the number of STR properties
• Supportive Local Government: City officials have expressed support for the STR industry as part of their tourism strategy
• Strategic Location: The city serves as a destination for the greater New Orleans metropolitan area
• Award-Winning Destination: Bay St. Louis has received recognition as a premier Gulf Coast destination

The registration requirement, while adding a compliance step, is designed to legitimize and protect the industry rather than restrict it. The $100 annual fee is relatively modest compared to many other municipalities with STR regulations.

Source Links

• WLOX News Report on Bay St. Louis STR Registration: www.wlox.com/2024/08/22/bay-st-louis-now-requiring-short-term-rental-properties-be-registered-through-city/

Note: The second URL provided (stlouis-mo.gov) contains information about St. Louis, Missouri regulations, which are not applicable to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and therefore were not included in this analysis.

Important Timeline Reminders

• Mid-September 2024: Registration applications become available
• October 1, 2024: City begins accepting registration applications
• January 1, 2025: Full ordinance enforcement begins
• Ongoing: Annual registration renewal required

Property owners and investors should ensure they complete their registration before the January 1, 2025 enforcement date to avoid potential compliance issues.