Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Algoma, WI?

YES, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Algoma, Wisconsin, subject to specific licensing and regulatory requirements. The city has established a comprehensive regulatory framework under Chapter 28, Article V of the Municipal Code that permits and regulates short-term rental operations. However, investors must obtain proper licensing at both the state and local levels before operating.

The city requires an annual license for any property used as a short-term rental for more than 10 nights during the license year (July 1 to June 30). Properties rented for 10 nights or fewer annually do not require city licensing but must still comply with state requirements if applicable.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Algoma

Phase 1: Pre-Application Planning

1. Assess Your Rental Frequency

• If you plan to rent for 10 or fewer nights per year: No city license required, but state licensing may still apply
• If you plan to rent for more than 10 nights per year: Full licensing required at both state and city levels

2. Property Compliance Verification

• Ensure your property meets all residential zoning requirements
• Verify adequate parking (minimum one off-street space per four occupants)
• Confirm smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed per Wisconsin Administrative Code ch. SPS 321
• Plan guest register system for compliance with Wis. Admin. Code § ATOP 72.16

Phase 2: State-Level Licensing (Required for All STRs)

1. Wisconsin DATCP Tourist Rooming House License

• Contact the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
• Apply for Tourist Rooming House License under Wis. Stat. § 254.64
• Schedule and complete state lodging establishment inspection
• Obtain inspection approval within three years of city application

2. Wisconsin Department of Revenue Seller's Permit

• Apply for seller's permit for tax collection purposes
• Required for collecting and remitting state sales tax and room tax

Phase 3: City-Level Licensing

1. Application Timeline

• Submit by June 1st for the upcoming license year (July 1-June 30)
• Renewal applications must be filed 30 days prior to license expiration
• Late applications may result in processing delays or denial

2. Application Process

1. Compile all required documentation (see Required Documents section)
2. Submit complete application with $100 fee to City Clerk
3. City verifies no outstanding debts or violations
4. Upon approval, license is issued for the license year

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

State-Level Requirements

1. Wisconsin DATCP Tourist Rooming House License

• Requirement: Mandatory for properties rented more than 10 nights annually
• Authority: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
• Reference: Wis. Stat. § 254.64
• Inspection: State lodging establishment inspection form (must be completed within 3 years of application)
• Application Link: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Licenses_Permits/RecFacLicenses.aspx

2. Wisconsin Department of Revenue Seller's Permit

• Purpose: Tax collection and remittance
• Authority: Wisconsin Department of Revenue
• Application: Through DOR's online portal or local offices

City-Level Requirements

3. City of Algoma Short-Term Rental License

• Fee: $100 annually (non-refundable)
• License Period: July 1 - June 30
• Application: City Clerk office (416 Fremont Street, Algoma, WI 54201)

4. Required Documentation Package

• State License: Copy of Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House License
• Inspection Form: Completed State Lodging Establishment Inspection Form (within 3 years)
• Seller's Permit: Copy from Wisconsin Department of Revenue
• Insurance: Homeowner's or business liability insurance policy covering STR periods
• Property Information:
  • Legal description and parcel ID numbers
  • Maximum occupancy capacity
  • On-site parking layout and count
  • Property manager designation (if applicable)

Compliance Certifications

5. Mandatory Certifications

• Maintain minimum one on-site, off-street parking space per four occupants
• Maintain written guest register per Wisconsin Administrative Code § ATOP 72.16
• Submit quarterly Room Tax Reports to City Treasurer
• Certify compliance with all city ordinances and state statutes

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Algoma Regulations (Chapter 28, Article V)

1. Operational Requirements

• Minimum Stay: No residential dwelling may be rented for 6 or fewer consecutive days unless a short-term rental license has been issued
• Maximum Occupancy: Cannot exceed limits set forth in Wis. Admin. Code § ATCP 72.14 for hotels, motels, and tourist rooming houses
• Property Management: Must be operated by property owner or designated property manager who can respond promptly to violations

2. Prohibited Activities

• Excessive noise, fumes, glare, or vibration
• Nuisance activities prohibited by City Code Chapter 30
• Dogs at large or trespass onto neighboring properties
• Use of RVs, campers, tents, or other temporary lodging arrangements as additional accommodations

3. Signage Restrictions

• Name plates or signage cannot exceed one square foot
• No other advertising signage permitted on-site unless proper sign permit obtained before ordinance passage

4. Insurance Requirements

• Must maintain homeowner's or business liability insurance effective during all STR periods
• Insurance must cover property used for short-term rental operations
• Written evidence required with application and renewal

5. Guest Registration

• Must provide guest register requiring all guests to register true names, addresses, and rental periods
• Guest register must be kept for minimum one year
• Available for inspection by city officials

6. Inspections and Access

• City officials may request access upon probable cause to inspect for violations
• Building inspector, local health officer, police chief, or designee authorized to request access
• Warrant required if access refused

County and State Regulations

7. Kewaunee County Requirements

• No additional county-specific STR regulations identified
• Must comply with all state statutes and administrative codes

8. Wisconsin State Regulations

• Tourist rooming house licensing under Wis. Stat. § 254.64
• Guest registration requirements under Wis. Admin. Code § ATOP 72.16
• Fire and safety standards under Wis. Admin. Code ch. SPS 321
• Tax collection and remittance requirements

Enforcement and Penalties

9. Violations and Consequences

• Penalties: $200-$2,500 forfeiture per offense plus prosecution costs
• Separate Offenses: Each violation day constitutes separate offense
• Additional Remedies: Injunction, abatement, and other civil remedies available
• License Revocation: Possible for repeated violations or non-compliance

10. License Revocation Grounds

• Failure to pay delinquent fees, taxes, or other debts
• Failure to maintain required laws/regulations
• Violations substantially harming residential neighborhood character

Contact Information

City of Algoma Officials

Primary Licensing Contacts:

Erin Mueller, City Clerk

• Phone: (920) 487-5203
• Email: erin.mueller@algomacity.org
• Address: 416 Fremont Street, Algoma, WI 54201
• Responsibilities: STR license applications, renewals, and general inquiries

Jamie Jackson, City Treasurer

• Phone: (920) 487-5203
• Email: jamie.jackson@algomacity.org
• Address: 416 Fremont Street, Algoma, WI 54201
• Responsibilities: Room tax reporting and collections

State Agencies

Wisconsin DATCP

• Website: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Licenses_Permits/RecFacLicenses.aspx
• Purpose: Tourist Rooming House licensing and inspection

Wisconsin Department of Revenue

• Purpose: Seller's permit and tax administration
• Website: https://www.revenue.wi.gov

City Resources

City of Algoma Official Website

• Website: www.algomacity.org
• Document Center: https://www.algomacity.org/how_do_i/document_center.php
• Municipal Code: Available through city website under Government section

Links to Source Pages

Primary Regulatory Documents

1. City of Algoma Short-Term Rental Application & Information

   • https://cms8.revize.com/revize/cityofalgoma/2025%20STR%20Info%20for%20Web.pdf

2. City of Algoma Municipal Code - Chapter 28, Article V (Short-Term Rentals)

   • Available in full in the STR application document above

3. City Document Center - STR Application

   • https://www.algomacity.org/how_do_i/document_center.php

4. City Ordinances and Resolutions

   • https://www.algomacity.org/government/resolutions.php

State Resources

5. Wisconsin DATCP Lodging Licenses
   • https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Licenses_Permits/RecFacLicenses.aspx

Industry Resources

6. Vacation Rental Management Information
   • https://www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/algoma-wisconsin

Important Note: Regulations and requirements may change. Investors should verify current requirements with city officials and state agencies before making investment decisions or beginning operations. The information provided is current as of the source documents but should be confirmed before proceeding with any STR investment or operation.