Important disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with local authorities and consult a licensed attorney or tax professional before operating a short-term rental.

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Millersburg, OH?

Yes. Short-term rentals are permitted in Millersburg, Ohio. As of 2025, Millersburg does not have city-specific short-term rental ordinances (e.g., no dedicated STR registration or licensing program). STR operations are allowed under standard zoning and housing codes, subject to compliance with state and county tax obligations, and applicable zoning and building requirements. The local regulatory environment is notably simpler than Ohio’s larger cities. [source 1][source 2]

Key compliance pillars:

• Zoning compliance with the Village of Millersburg
• Building and housing code standards
• Ohio state tax obligations (vendor’s license and sales tax)
• Holmes County lodging tax
• General business operation standards

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Millersburg

Step-by-step roadmap for investors:

1. Research the market and select a property

   • Focus on properties that fit the Amish Country experience: historic homes, farm-style properties, cottages/cabins, or rural properties with views and outdoor spaces.
   • Consider proximity to Berlin (major tourist hub), downtown Millersburg, trails, and seasonal attractions.
   • Assess year-round access (winter weather) and parking capacity.

2. Verify zoning and permitted use

   • Confirm with the Zoning Inspector that STR use is allowed in the zoning district of the target property.
   • Review any historic district design guidelines if applicable. [source 4]

3. Obtain the Ohio Vendor’s License (required for sales tax collection)

   • Register online through the Ohio Business Gateway (Form ST-1).
   • Current fee: $50 (effective April 2025).
   • License remains valid while business is active; display at property location. [source 1]

4. Register for Holmes County lodging tax and confirm filing frequency

   • Holmes County levies a 3% lodging tax on gross receipts for rentals fewer than 30 days.
   • Confirm whether you must register with the County and understand monthly or quarterly filing requirements. Some platforms may collect and remit this tax—verify coverage. [source 1]

5. Property setup and safety standards

   • Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, clear exit paths, emergency contact information, and well-maintained systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical).
   • Ensure exterior standards (landscaping, lighting, walkways) and adequate parking.

6. Create compelling listings and operational systems

   • Professional photography, authentic Amish Country aesthetic, clear house rules, and thorough guest guides (cultural sensitivity, rural settings, well/septic info).
   • Use multiple platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com) and consider a direct booking site to reduce fees.

7. Tax collection and remittance

   • Collect Ohio sales tax (5.75% base, combined local rates typically around 6.75%) and the 3% Holmes County lodging tax.
   • File on required schedule; platforms may handle state sales tax automatically but verify county lodging tax coverage. Maintain detailed records for at least 3 years. [source 1]

8. Maintain compliance and good community relations

   • File all required returns on time; keep organized records.
   • Address neighbor concerns promptly; uphold standards aligned with local cultural values (quietness, respect, property maintenance).

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential documentation and compliance items:

• Ohio Vendor’s License (ST-1; Ohio Business Gateway)
• Sales tax and lodging tax filing records (monthly or quarterly)
• Guest registration records for tax compliance
• Liability insurance policy (minimum $1,000,000 recommended)
• Property ownership or lease authorization documents
• Building permits/records for renovations (if applicable)
• HOA approval or documentation (if applicable)
• Safety equipment installation records (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers)
• House rules and guest information guide
• Local contact information posted for guests
• Zoning compliance confirmation with Village of Millersburg [source 1][source 4]

Specific Regulations at the City, County, and State Level

City (Village of Millersburg)

• No specific STR registration or licensing requirements as of 2025.
• STRs must comply with:
  • Zoning: Confirm STR use is permitted in the zoning district (contact Zoning Inspector).
  • Housing and building codes: Meet safety and maintenance standards.
  • General business standards: Operate responsibly in residential neighborhoods. [source 1][source 4]

County (Holmes County)

• Lodging tax: 3% of gross rental receipts for rentals fewer than 30 days.
• Registration: May be required; verify current procedures with the County.
• Filing frequency: Typically monthly or quarterly depending on volume. Some platforms may collect and remit; confirm your obligations. [source 1]

State (Ohio)

• Vendor’s License (sales tax): Required to collect and remit state sales tax.
  • Application: Online via Ohio Business Gateway (Form ST-1).
  • Fee: $50.
  • Display: License at business location. [source 1]
• Sales tax: 5.75% base state rate; combined local rates commonly ~6.75% depending on property location. Rentals fewer than 30 days are subject to sales tax.
• Filing schedule: Monthly or quarterly, with returns due by the 23rd of the following month. Late penalties and interest apply. [source 1]

Additional considerations

• Zoning verification and any historic district design review requirements may apply to properties within designated areas of the Village. [source 4]

Contact Information for Local Authorities and Agencies

Use the following contacts for official guidance, confirmations, and filings:

• Village of Millersburg Planning & Zoning (Zoning Inspector)

  • Phone: (330) 674-1886
  • Zoning map (informational): gis.co.holmes.oh.us/holmesnj/ (select “Zoning (Millersburg Only)”)
  • Contact Zoning Inspector (email): nathan.troyer@millersburgohio.com [source 4]

• Village of Millersburg (general municipal information)

  • Phone: (330) 674-1245
  • Address: 109 S. Washington Street, Millersburg, OH 44654 [source 1]

• Holmes County Auditor

  • Phone: (330) 674-1896
  • Address: 1 E. Jackson Street, Suite 201, Millersburg, OH 44654 [source 1]

• Holmes County Treasurer

  • Phone: (330) 674-1876
  • Address: 1 E. Jackson Street, Millersburg, OH 44654 [source 1]

• Ohio Department of Taxation

  • Phone: 1-888-405-4039
  • Website: tax.ohio.gov/
  • Ohio Business Gateway: gateway.ohio.gov/ [source 1]

• Holmes County Chamber of Commerce (tourism/business information)

  • Phone: (330) 674-3975
  • Website: www.holmescountychamber.com/ [source 1]

Tax Summary and Filing Information

• Ohio sales tax: 5.75% base; total combined rate typically ~6.75% (state + local).
• Holmes County lodging tax: 3% of gross receipts for rentals fewer than 30 days.
• Returns and remittance:
  • Sales tax: Monthly or quarterly; due by the 23rd of the following month; electronic filing required.
  • Lodging tax: Confirm filing frequency with Holmes County Treasurer; due dates typically 30 days after the reporting period.
• Platforms: Airbnb/VRBO may collect and remit Ohio sales tax automatically; verify whether county lodging tax is collected by platforms for your property.
• Penalties: Late filing and payment penalties apply, plus interest. Maintain records for at least 3 years. [source 1][source 3]

Zoning and Location Considerations

• Verify zoning for STR use prior to purchase or operation; confirm with the Zoning Inspector.
• Historic district properties may be subject to design review standards; review guidelines if applicable.
• Neighborhood relations: Maintain high standards for property maintenance, quiet hours, parking, and cultural sensitivity.
• Rural properties: Address well water, septic systems, wildlife, agricultural operations, and seasonal road conditions. [source 1][source 4]

Safety and Best Practices

• Install and maintain smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and clear emergency exits.
• Post emergency contact information and procedures (including weather-related guidance).
• Keep interior and exterior spaces clean and well-maintained.
• Provide comprehensive guest information about local culture, amenities, and rural considerations (e.g., well/septic systems, Amish etiquette, Sunday observances). [source 1][source 2]

Enforcement and Common Issues

• Compliance is monitored primarily through tax enforcement and complaint-driven local code enforcement.
• Common violations: operating without a vendor’s license, failing to collect/remit sales tax or county lodging tax, zoning violations, noise complaints, parking issues, property maintenance standards, and trash/waste management problems.
• Penalties: State tax penalties, potential audits, and possible local enforcement for zoning or nuisance issues. Maintain thorough records and respond promptly to any inquiries. [source 1]

Links to Source Pages

For verification and deeper details, consult these source pages:

• Millersburg OH Short Term Rental Regulations: Your Complete Amish Country Rental Investment Guide — The Offer Sheet

  • local.theoffersheet.com/legal/millersburg-oh/

• Vacation Rental Management in Millersburg, Ohio — Summer

  • www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/millersburg-ohio

• Airbnb Management — Checkmate Rentals

  • www.checkmaterentals.com/airbnb-management/millersburg-ohio

• Village of Millersburg Planning and Zoning Commission

  • www.millersburgohio.com/departments/planning-and-zoning-commission

• Ohio Department of Taxation

  • tax.ohio.gov/

• Ohio Business Gateway

  • gateway.ohio.gov/

• Holmes County Chamber of Commerce

  • www.holmescountychamber.com/

If you are a property investor seeking a streamlined STR environment with strong seasonal tourism in Ohio’s Amish Country, Millersburg is a viable market—provided you comply with zoning, state sales tax, and county lodging tax requirements, and maintain high standards consistent with local community values.