Short-Term Rental Guide for Wrangell, Alaska

Overview

Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Wrangell, Alaska, but require specific approvals and permits depending on zoning and location. The city operates under a conditional use permit system for STRs in certain zoning districts, as evidenced by active applications and public hearings before the Planning & Zoning Commission.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Wrangell

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Determine Zoning Compliance: Identify your property's zoning classification through the Online Parcel Mapping system
2. Conditional Use Permit Application: Submit a Conditional Use Permit application to the Planning & Zoning Commission for STR operation
3. Public Hearing Process: Prepare for public notification and hearing (properties within 300 feet receive mailed notices)
4. Commission Review: Present your case to the Planning & Zoning Commission
5. Assembly Final Approval: Final approval typically requires Borough Assembly ratification
6. Registration: Complete registration with relevant borough departments

Required Information for Applications:

• Property ownership documentation
• Detailed site plans and building descriptions
• Operational plans including parking, waste management
• Compliance with fire and safety codes

Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses

Primary Permits/Licenses:

1. Conditional Use Permit (CUP)

   • Required for STR operation in most residential zoning districts
   • Application submitted to Planning & Zoning Commission
   • Public hearing mandatory

2. Business License

   • State business license required
   • Available through Alaska Department of Commerce

3. Borough Business Registration

   • Registration with City and Borough of Wrangell
   • Contact Finance Department for registration requirements

4. Fire and Safety Compliance

   • Building safety inspections as required
   • Fire department approval for occupancy

Specific Regulations by Level

City of Wrangell Regulations:

Zoning Requirements:

• STRs require Conditional Use Permits in Rural Residential 1 zones
• Specific zoning restrictions apply based on location
• Public hearing process mandatory for permit approval
• 300-foot notification radius for surrounding property owners

Operational Guidelines:

• Must comply with all applicable fire and life safety codes
• Building and property maintenance standards apply
• Parking requirements must be met

Borough-Level Considerations:

• Property tax implications for commercial STR operation
• Sales tax collection and remittance requirements
• Waste management and utility service responsibilities

State of Alaska Requirements:

Bed & Breakfast Standards (applicable to STR operations):

• Owner-occupied private residences with five or fewer rental rooms
• Public accommodations with more than five rental rooms subject to additional requirements
• Fire & life safety compliance required for operations with more than five rooms
• Pool and spa regulations may apply
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance for larger operations
• Food permits required if serving meals

State Tax Requirements:

• Sales tax collection and remittance
• Hotel/motel bed tax obligations
• Income tax reporting requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contacts:

Planning & Zoning Department:

• Address: P.O. Box 531, Wrangell, AK 99929
• Email: kthomas@wrangell.com
• Phone: (907) 874-2381
• Office Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Economic Development Department:

• Contact through Planning & Zoning Commission
• Handles business development and permit assistance

Fire Department:

• Contact for safety inspections and compliance
• Address: City and Borough of Wrangell Fire Department

Borough Manager:

• Overall borough administration oversight
• P.O. Box 531, Wrangell, AK 99929

Meeting Schedule and Process

Planning & Zoning Commission Meetings:

• Regular meetings typically held on Thursdays at 5:30 PM
• Location: Nolan Center classroom (note: meeting location changed from City Hall)
• Meeting packets available through Borough website calendar
• Public encouraged to attend

Application Process Timeline:

1. Application submission to Planning Department
2. Staff review and preparation of public notices
3. 300-foot radius property owner notification
4. Public hearing at Planning & Zoning Commission meeting
5. Commission recommendation to Borough Assembly
6. Assembly final approval process

Important Notes for STR Investors

Market Context:

• Wrangell has a smaller STR market compared to larger Alaska communities
• Tourism Best Management Practices Hotline available for complaints: (907) 874-2381
• Strong local control with detailed permit review process

Compliance Requirements:

• Strict adherence to conditional use permit conditions
• Regular inspections and compliance monitoring
• Community engagement expected during public process

Source Links

• Planning & Zoning Commission: www.wrangell.com/pz/planning-zoning-commission-2
• Online Parcel Mapping: www.wrangell.com/planning/online-parcel-mapping-and-data
• Borough Calendar: www.wrangell.com/calendar
• Municipal Code: ecode360.com/WR4331
• Fee and Rate Schedule: www.wrangell.com/finance/borough-fee-rate-schedule
• Forms and Applications: www.wrangell.com/forms
• Tourism Best Management Practices: travelwrangell.com/tbmphotline

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available public information as of the provided search results. Regulations may change, and investors should consult directly with the Planning & Zoning Commission and Borough Assembly for the most current requirements and application procedures.