STR INVESTOR'S GUIDE TO MEDICINE LODGE, KANSAS

OVERVIEW: ARE SHORT-TERM RENTALS ALLOWED?

YES, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Medicine Lodge, KS under specific conditions and zoning requirements. The city recognizes multiple types of short-term accommodation businesses, including Bed and Breakfast Inns, Tourist Homes, and other transient lodging facilities, subject to zoning compliance and permitting requirements.

HOW TO START A SHORT-TERM RENTAL BUSINESS

Step 1: Zoning Compliance Verification

1. Determine your property's zoning district using the Official Zoning Maps (filed with City Clerk)
2. Verify permitted uses for your specific zoning classification
3. Check setback requirements and density limitations
4. Review floodplain restrictions if applicable (F-P Overlay District)

Step 2: Use Classification and Permitting

1. Identify your STR category:

   • Bed and Breakfast Inn (residential structure with meals)
   • Tourist Home (dwelling providing overnight accommodations)
   • Hotel/Motel (commercial transient lodging)

2. Obtain required permits:

   • Zoning Compliance Certificate
   • Occupancy Certificate (if applicable)
   • Conditional Use Permit (if required)

Step 3: Application Process

1. Submit applications to the Zoning Administrator
2. Provide detailed site plans and building specifications
3. Include supporting documentation for proposed use
4. Pay applicable fees (contact City Clerk for current fee schedule)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS, PERMITS, AND LICENSES

Essential Documents:

• Zoning Compliance Certificate - Required for all permitted uses
• Occupancy Certificate - Certifies building meets all regulations for intended use
• Conditional Use Permit - Required for uses listed as conditional in your zoning district
• Site Plans - Detailed layout showing setbacks, access, parking
• Building Specifications - Construction details and safety features

Supporting Documentation:

• Proof of property ownership or lease agreement
• Site description including lot dimensions and street address
• Intended use and occupancy details
• Building plans and specifications (if new construction or alterations)
• Sanitary system compliance documentation
• Fire safety measures documentation

Additional Considerations:

• Kansas Department of Health and Environment licensing (if applicable)
• Fire Department approval for safety compliance
• Utility service verification (water, sewer, electric)

SPECIFIC REGULATIONS BY JURISDICTION

City of Medicine Lodge - Zoning Requirements:

Bed and Breakfast Inns:

• Maximum 6 sleeping rooms in residential districts
• Must be residential structures (not hotels or boarding houses)
• Pre-arrangement required for definite short-term periods
• Meals and lodging provided for compensation

Tourist Homes:

• Overnight accommodations provided for transient guests
• Compensation-based operations
• Must comply with residential district standards

Permitted Zoning Districts:

• Check specific district use regulations for STR allowances
• Commercial districts (C-1, C-2) may have different requirements
• Residential districts have specific limitations on commercial activity

General Requirements:

• Comply with all bulk regulations (height, lot coverage, setbacks)
• Meet parking requirements for transient guests
• Maintain residential character in residential zones
• Follow sign regulations (ARTICLE XXIV)
• Comply with parking and loading standards (ARTICLE XXV)

Barber County Regulations:

• County zoning applies outside city limits
• Three-mile planning jurisdiction applies
• Different requirements may apply for county properties

Kansas State Requirements:

• Kansas Department of Health and Environment licensing for certain facilities
• State building codes and safety standards
• Food service regulations if meals provided
• Alcohol licensing if applicable

CONTACT INFORMATION

City of Medicine Lodge

• Address: 114 W. 2nd Ave, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104
• Phone: (620) 886-3986
• Website: www.medicinelodge.kansas.gov
• Key Contacts:
  • City Clerk: Responsible for permit applications and zoning compliance certificates
  • Zoning Administrator: Administers zoning regulations and occupancy certificates
  • Building Inspector: Reviews construction plans and inspections

Additional Contacts:

• Barber County Planning & Zoning: (620) 886-5660
• Kansas Department of Health and Environment: (785) 296-1500
• Barber County Health Department: (620) 886-3294

IMPORTANT REGULATORY NOTES

Prohibited Uses:

• STRs are specifically excluded from "home occupation" definitions
• Adult entertainment establishments are prohibited
• Certain commercial activities restricted in residential zones

Conditional Use Requirements:

• Home occupations specifically exclude "tourist accommodations including bed and breakfast establishments"
• Many STR types require Conditional Use Permits in residential zones
• Planning Commission review and Governing Body approval required

Health and Safety:

• Fire safety compliance required
• Sanitary system compliance mandatory
• Building code compliance for all structures
• Occupancy limits must be enforced

SOURCE DOCUMENTS

• Zoning Ordinance: medicinelodge.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Zoning-Ordinace-FINAL-20120516.pdf
• Planning Commission Records: Contact City Clerk for current applications and decisions
• Building Codes: City Building Department for current construction standards
• State Regulations: Kansas Department of Health and Environment website

INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Due Diligence: Verify zoning classification before purchase
2. Professional Consultation: Engage local planning professionals familiar with city requirements
3. Pre-Application Meeting: Discuss requirements with Zoning Administrator before formal applications
4. Compliance Monitoring: Maintain ongoing compliance with all permit conditions
5. Community Relations: Understand neighborhood concerns and maintain good relationships

This guide provides the framework for operating a compliant short-term rental business in Medicine Lodge, KS. Specific requirements may vary based on property location, intended use, and current city regulations. Always verify current requirements with local authorities before beginning operations.