Understanding Napoleon Townships Short Term Rental Ordinance for Airbnb and VRBO in Jackson County

Napoleon Township in Jackson County, Michigan, introduced an ordinance regulating short term rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb and VRBO properties. This ordinance aims to balance the benefits of short term rentals with the concerns of residents and the community. If you own or plan to operate an Airbnb or VRBO in Napoleon Township, understanding these rules is essential to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

This post breaks down the key points of the ordinance, explains what it means for hosts and neighbors, and offers practical advice for navigating the regulations.

Link to Ordinance

Link to Application

Napoleon Township Short Term Rental Application.pdf_t=202503171256080&t=202503171256080.pd

Download PD • 113KB

Short Term Rentals Final Version Approved by Board August 13, 2024_Exponent copy.pdf_t=202

Download PDF_T=202 • 21KB

What Is the Short Term Rental Ordinance?

Napoleon Township’s ordinance sets clear rules for properties rented out for short stays, typically less than 30 days, these typically are associated with platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The township created this ordinance to address concerns about noise, parking, safety, and neighborhood character that sometimes arise from short term rentals.

The ordinance highlights include:

• Registration requirements for all short term rental properties before they can be put into use.

• Detached accessory structures shall not be used as a short-term rental unless approved as a home occupation conditional use.

• Township determines parking locations must be on property, no on street parking allowed

• Penalties for violations

• No permit shall be issued for any property unless that owner is current on the payment of all real property taxes, utility bills, and any other charges, fees, special assessments, or other amounts due the township on all properties in Napoleon Township belonging to that owner

• The proposed use shall not cause a nuisance to adjacent properties

• Burning Permits are required for all fires except as specified in the township outdoor burning ordinance

• Must comply with Michigan Building Code

• Guests may not stay more than 30 consecutive days and may not stay more than 60 days in a calendar year.

• Smoke detector, Carbon Monoxide detector, and fire extinguisher requirements

• Owner of Property shall prominently display list (specifically calls out 7 items)

• Registry of every rental occupant who stayed on the property current or previous (Name, home address, phone number, and vehicle information)

• Code enforcement officer inspections to be conducted no less than every other calendar year or upon written complaint

• Sleeping area square footage requirement

• Property owner is responsible for behavior of rental occupants and their guests

• Plus rules around Bed and Breakfasts are also outlined on the ordinance.

The goal is to allow responsible short term rentals while protecting the quality of life for permanent residents and the guests alike.

What needs to be displayed on/in the property?

a) The short-term rental permit to include maximum allowed number of occupants.

b) The local agent who manages the property including their name and a primary and secondary 24-hour telephone number.

c) The property floor plan and diagram of permitted parking location(s).

d) Street address including township name.

e) Emergency evacuation plan in each sleeping-area and bedroom.

f) An address sign clearly legible at night from the road.

g) Knox-Box for emergencies if a structure is located on the property.

Who Must Comply With the Ordinance?

The ordinance applies to anyone who rents out a property in Napoleon Township for short term stays. This includes:

• Homeowners renting their primary residence

• Owners of vacation homes or investment properties

• Property managers handling rentals on behalf of owners

  
  

Even if you only rent your property occasionally, you must register and follow the rules. Failure to comply can result in fines or revocation of rental privileges.

Registration Process and Fees

One of the first steps under the ordinance is registering your short term rental with Napoleon township. The registration process typically involves:

• Submitting an application form with property details

• Providing proof of ownership

• Proof of Insurance

• Proof of Property Trash Service

• Paying a registration fee ($150)

• Agreeing to comply with all ordinance requirements

  
  

Registration must be renewed annually.

Safety and Property Standards

Napoleon Township requires short term rentals to meet certain safety and maintenance standards to protect guests and neighbors. These include:

• Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms

• Proper exits and emergency plans

• Adequate parking spaces on the property

• Maintaining the property in good condition without nuisances

  
  

The township may conduct inspections or require proof of compliance. These standards help reduce risks and ensure rentals do not negatively impact the neighborhood.

Limits on Guests and Rental Length

To prevent overcrowding the ordinance sets limits on:

• Maximum number of guests allowed per rental, often based on the number of bedrooms or square footage

• Maximum number of consecutive days rented to one guest at 30 days, or 60 in a year

  
  

Hosts should review the specific rules carefully to avoid violations.

Parking and Noise Regulations

Parking and noise are common concerns with short term rentals. The ordinance addresses these by:

• Requiring off-street parking spaces for all guests

• Prohibiting parking along the street

• Holding hosts responsible for guest behavior and disturbances

  
  

Following these rules helps maintain neighborhood peace and reduces complaints.

Enforcement and Penalties

Napoleon Township enforces the ordinance through:

• Complaints from neighbors or township officials

• Predetermined inspections or inspections based on complaints

• Issuing warnings, fines, or citations for violations

• Suspending or revoking registration for repeat offenders

  
  

Hosts should take the ordinance seriously to protect their rental business.

Practical Tips for Hosts in Napoleon Township

If you operate or plan to start a short term rental in Napoleon Township, consider these tips:

• Register your property promptly to avoid penalties

• Review the ordinance details on the township website or contact officials for clarification

• Ensure your property meets all safety requirements before renting

• Communicate clearly with guests about parking, disturbances, and house rules

• Keep records of registrations, guest information, inspections, and guest communications

• Respond quickly to any complaints to resolve issues before they escalate

  
  

Being proactive helps you run a successful rental while maintaining good relations with neighbors and the township.

How This Ordinance Compares to Other Michigan Townships

Napoleon Township’s ordinance reflects a growing trend in Michigan to regulate short term rentals more closely. Similar townships have adopted rules requiring registration, safety standards, and limits on rental activity.

Compared to some areas, Napoleon’s rules are moderate, aiming to allow rentals but with clear boundaries. This approach balances economic benefits from tourism with protecting residential neighborhoods.

What Residents Should Know

Residents who live near short term rentals should understand the ordinance because it:

• Provides a way to report violations or disturbances

• Ensures rentals meet safety and parking standards

• Limits guest numbers and noise concerns

• Helps preserve neighborhood character

  
  

Residents can contact township officials if they believe a rental is not following the rules.

Napoleon Township’s new short term rental ordinance brings important changes for Airbnb and VRBO hosts and residents alike. By requiring registration, setting safety and guest limits, and enforcing parking rules, the township aims to create a fair and safe environment for everyone.