Short-term rentals (STRs) are explicitly allowed in West Memphis, Arkansas. The operation of an STR is permitted under the city's zoning regulations as either a "Boarding House" (in residential districts) or a "Hotel/Motel" (in commercial districts), subject to the specific zoning district, use regulations, and development standards outlined in the city's Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 1988).

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in West Memphis

Starting an STR in West Memphis involves understanding the zoning allowances and securing the necessary permits. The process is as follows:

1. Zoning Compliance Verification: The first and most critical step is to determine if your property is located in a zoning district where STRs are permitted.

   • As a Boarding House: This use is permitted in the R-4 Medium Density Residential District.
   • As a Hotel/Motel: This use is permitted in the C-1 General Business, C-1-F General Commercial, C-2 Open Display, BW-1 General Broadway, and BW-2 Open Display Broadway districts.
   • You can verify the zoning of your property by contacting the Planning & Development Department.

2. Adherence to Use Regulations: Once zoning is confirmed, you must adhere to all associated use regulations for the specific district, including parking requirements, yard setbacks, and any other development standards.

3. Permit Acquisition: You must obtain the necessary permits from the city to operate legally.

   • Building Permit: If your property requires new construction, significant alteration, or a change in use, you must first apply for and receive a Building Permit.
   • Certificate of Occupancy: Upon completion of the work outlined in the Building Permit, you must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the city's building department. This certificate is required before any building or structure can be occupied and must be renewed as required.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

The following are the primary requirements for operating an STR in West Memphis:

• Zoning Compliance: Adherence to the City of West Memphis Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 1988, as amended). This is the fundamental legal framework governing land use, including STRs.
• Building Permit: Required for new construction or alterations that change the use or occupancy of the structure.
• Certificate of Occupancy: A mandatory permit issued after final inspection, confirming the building complies with code and is safe for occupancy.
• Off-Street Parking: Must be provided in accordance with Article VI of the Zoning Ordinance, which mandates parking for specific uses. For example, hotels/motels require parking spaces as detailed in the ordinance.
• Article V Special Provisions: Certain uses may have additional conditions or restrictions outlined in this article, such as those for home occupations or other specified activities. STR operators should ensure their operation does not conflict with any special provisions applicable to their district.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

The regulations for an STR depend on the specific zoning district in which it is located. The city's zoning ordinance dictates the following:

1. In Residential Districts (R-4 as a Boarding House):

   • Permitted Use: STRs are allowed as a "Rooming or Boarding House" in the R-4 Medium Density Residential District.
   • Development Standards: Must comply with all R-4 district regulations for lot size, yard dimensions, and building height. The district regulations also govern the maximum number of dwelling units allowed on a lot.
   • Compatibility: The operation must be compatible with the residential character of the neighborhood and comply with all general welfare provisions of the zoning ordinance.

2. In Commercial Districts (C-1, C-1-F, C-2, BW-1, BW-2 as a Hotel/Motel):

   • Permitted Use: STRs are allowed as a "Hotel / Motel" use.
   • Permitted Use Conditions: The use is subject to the general development criteria for commercial districts, which include restrictions on outdoor storage and requirements for building enclosure. Specific commercial districts like C-2 and BW-2 also have regulations for open display of merchandise that would not apply to a hotel/motel.
   • Development Standards: Must comply with the lot, yard, and height regulations for the specific commercial district. For example, the C-1 district has a maximum lot coverage of 50% and a maximum height of 36 feet (3 stories), with increased yard setbacks required for buildings exceeding the height limit.

Contact Information

For all inquiries regarding zoning, permits, and the Certificate of Occupancy, contact the City of West Memphis Planning and Development Department:

• Phone: (870) 732-7520
• Physical Address: 205 South Redding, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301
• Director: Paul Luker, AICP

Links to Source Pages

The information provided is based on the official City of West Memphis Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 1988, as amended). The source document is available at the following link:

• https://westmemphisar.gov/DocumentCenter/View/895/Zoning-Ordinance-Ord-1988