Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Goshen, IN?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Goshen, Indiana. The city has explicitly recognized short-term rentals in their zoning ordinance, distinguishing them from "tourist homes" and referencing Indiana Code for their regulation. The Goshen Plan Commission updated the zoning ordinance in July 2023 to clarify that tourist homes do not include short-term rentals, which are regulated separately under state law.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Goshen, IN

Step 1: Understand Zoning Compliance

Before establishing a short-term rental, verify that your property is in an appropriate zoning district. According to the 2023 zoning ordinance amendments, tourist homes (which are distinct from short-term rentals) are permitted in multiple residential districts including A-1, R-1, R-1S, R-2, and certain commercial districts.

Step 2: Verify Property Eligibility

Ensure your property meets all applicable zoning requirements for your specific district. Different zoning districts have varying restrictions on accessory uses, parking, and residential density.

Step 3: Review State Requirements

Since short-term rentals in Indiana are regulated by state law (Indiana Code), review state-level requirements that may apply to your operation.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City Level Requirements

• Zoning Compliance: Ensure your property use aligns with local zoning ordinances
• Building Permits: If modifications are needed, obtain required building permits from Goshen Building Department
• Business Registration: Check if local business registration is required

State Level Requirements

• Indiana State Regulations: Short-term rentals are regulated by Indiana Code (specific citation needs verification)
• State Tax Registration: Indiana state tax requirements may apply for short-term rental income
• Fire Safety Compliance: State fire safety regulations for rental properties

Recommended Documentation

• Property deed or lease agreement
• Proof of property insurance
• Contact information for property management
• Emergency contact procedures
• Guest rules and regulations

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations (Goshen, IN)

Zoning Classifications

The Goshen zoning ordinance has been updated to specifically address short-term rentals:

• Definition Clarification: Tourist homes are defined as occupied dwellings providing sleeping rooms to transient guests, but specifically exclude short-term rentals as defined by Indiana Code
• Distinction: Tourist homes and short-term rentals are treated as separate categories under city zoning law

Permitted Districts

Tourist homes (separate from short-term rentals) are permitted in:

• A-1 Agricultural District
• R-1 Residential District
• R-1S Special Residential District
• R-2 Residential District
• Select commercial districts

Compliance Requirements

• All uses must comply with district-specific requirements
• Parking requirements must be met according to zoning district
• Setback requirements apply based on property zoning
• Residential character must be maintained

County-Level Regulations (Elkhart County)

The provided content does not contain specific Elkhart County short-term rental regulations. Properties within Goshen city limits are primarily governed by city ordinances, but county regulations may apply for properties in the extended metropolitan area.

State-Level Regulations (Indiana)

Indiana Code governs short-term rental operations statewide. Key state considerations include:

• Registration or licensing requirements under state law
• Tax obligations (state income tax, potentially local taxes)
• Safety and building code compliance
• Guest accommodation regulations

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact - Goshen Planning & Zoning Department

City Planner: Rhonda L. Yoder, AICP
Address: 204 East Jefferson Street, Suite 4, Goshen, IN 46528-3405
Phone: (574) 537-3815
Fax: (574) 533-8626
TDD: (574) 534-3185
Email: rhondayoder@goshencity.com
Website: www.goshenindiana.org

Building Department

For building permits and safety inspections: Contact through City Hall: (574) 533-8621
Building Department: Located within City Hall complex

Goshen Plan Commission

Meeting Location: Council Chambers, 111 E. Jefferson Street, Goshen, Indiana
Meeting Schedule: Regular meetings typically held monthly (verify current schedule)

Additional Resources

City Main Number: (574) 533-8621
City Website: www.goshenindiana.org for current ordinances and permit applications

Important Notes for STR Investors

1. Regulatory Distinction: Goshen's zoning ordinance specifically distinguishes between "tourist homes" and "short-term rentals," with the latter governed primarily by Indiana state law.

2. Zoning Compliance Critical: While short-term rentals are allowed, they must comply with all applicable zoning requirements for the property's district classification.

3. Recent Updates: The 2023 zoning ordinance amendments demonstrate the city's active management of short-term accommodation uses, indicating ongoing regulatory oversight.

4. State Law Primacy: Given the explicit reference to Indiana Code in the zoning definition, state-level regulations likely supersede local requirements for many operational aspects.

5. Professional Consultation Recommended: Due to the complexity of overlapping city, county, and state regulations, investors should consult with local legal and zoning professionals before proceeding.

Source Links

• Goshen Zoning Ordinance Amendment - July 18, 2023
• Goshen City Planning & Zoning Department
• Goshen Municipal Code

This guide is based on available public records and zoning ordinance amendments as of July 2023. Regulations may have changed. Investors should verify current requirements with local authorities before establishing operations.