Executive Summary: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Fennville, Michigan. However, the regulatory environment is currently evolving, with no specific city-level STR ordinances in place at the time of this analysis. Fennville treats short-term rentals under existing rental regulations and general zoning provisions.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Fennville

Initial Steps

1. Pre-Application Review Conference: Contact City Administrator at (269) 561-8321 or kbeemer@fennville.gov to schedule a conceptual review meeting
2. Zoning Verification: Confirm your property's zoning designation and whether STR use is permitted
3. Building Compliance: Ensure property meets Michigan Building Code requirements

Required Documentation and Permits

Building Permits (for any construction/renovation)

Required Submissions:

• Complete BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION
• Detailed site plan
• Owner/Contractor/Jobsite/cost information
• Agent Authorization (if builder obtains permit)
• THREE SETS OF HARDCOPY PLANS TO SCALE including:
  • Foundation Plan (detailed)
  • All significant elevations
  • Floor plans with room use and dimensions
  • Window and door sizes
  • Stairway structural details (if applicable)
  • Deck structural details (if applicable)
  • Cross section of one wall from footing to peak
  • North elevation identification
  • Snow-loading capacity
  • Energy code insulation values
• Proof of ownership (deed, land contract, or tax bill)

Additional Permits (if applicable)

• Earth Change Permit (SESC): Required if jobsite is within 500 feet of waterway or disturbs 1+ acres
• DEQ Permit: For Lake Michigan, wetland, or floodplain areas
• Fire Department Approval: For commercial projects
• Health Department Approval: If project includes food service

Building Inspection and Zoning Administration

The City of Fennville contracts with Michigan Township Services for building inspections and zoning administration:

• Address: 111 Grand St, Allegan, MI 49010
• Phone: 269-673-3239
• Email: mtsallegan@frontier.com

Current Regulatory Framework

City-Level Regulations

• Rental Inspection Requirement: All long and short-term rentals require inspection every three years
• No STR-Specific Ordinances: Currently no dedicated short-term rental licensing or operational requirements
• Zoning Compliance: STR use must comply with underlying zoning district requirements

State-Level Framework (Michigan)

• Michigan House of Representatives classifies short-term rentals as permitted residential use in all residential zoning areas
• No distinct commercial classification or unique permit requirements at state level
• Local governments retain authority to regulate issues like noise, advertising, traffic, and nuisances

County-Level Requirements

Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control (SESC):

• Required if jobsite is within 500 feet of waterway (lake, river, stream, pond, storm sewer, County Drain)
• Required if disturbing 1+ acre
• Contact: Allegan County Drain Commissioner at 269-673-5415

Operational Requirements and Guidelines

Guest Accommodation Taxes

Important Note: The sources do not provide specific information about local accommodation taxes in Fennville. Hosts should contact the City Clerk's office or Allegan County Treasurer to determine applicable tax obligations.

Safety and Compliance

• Building Code Compliance: All properties must meet Michigan Building Code standards
• Fire Safety: Must comply with applicable fire safety regulations
• Health Standards: Must meet health department requirements if applicable

Zoning Considerations

Properties must comply with their underlying zoning district requirements. The City of Fennville Zoning Ordinance establishes multiple districts:

• Residential Districts: R-1, R-2, R-T, RM, RMH
• Business Districts: B-1, B-2, CBD
• Other Districts: AG, OS-1, P, I-1, I-2

Application and Approval Process

For Building Permits

1. Submit required documentation to Michigan Township Services
2. Payment Methods Accepted:
   • Cash (City Hall or Michigan Township Services offices)
   • Check (payable to City of Fennville)
   • Debit/Credit Card (in-person or online via BS&A Online)
3. Processing: Submit to Michigan Township Services at provided address

For Development Projects

Recommended Process:

1. Pre-Application Conference: Schedule with City Administrator
2. Conceptual Plan Review: Submit application with project details
3. Formal Application: Submit complete application with all required documentation
4. Review and Approval: City staff review for compliance

Contact Information

City of Fennville - Primary Contacts

City Hall Address: 125 S Maple St, Fennville, MI 49408 Phone: (269) 561-8321 Email: kbeemer@fennville.gov Mailing Address: City of Fennville, PO Box 666, Fennville, MI 49408

Building & Zoning Administrator: Contact through Michigan Township Services

• Address: 111 Grand St, Allegan, MI 49010
• Phone: 269-673-3239
• Email: mtsallegan@frontier.com

County Contacts

Allegan County Drain Commissioner (for SESC permits) Phone: 269-673-5415

Online Resources and Applications

City of Fennville

• Building Permits: Apply Online via BS&A
• Planning & Zoning: City Website
• Master Plan: 2022-2027 Master Plan
• Guide to Development: Development Guide
• Pre-Application Review Worksheet: Worksheet PDF

Zoning Ordinance

Full Zoning Ordinance: Official Document

Key Findings and Recommendations

Current Status

1. STRs are permitted under existing residential use classifications
2. No specific STR licensing currently required
3. Three-year inspection cycle applies to all rentals
4. Zoning compliance is essential for all STR operations

Strategic Considerations

1. Market Opportunity: Fennville shows strong STR performance with high daily rates and seasonal demand
2. Regulatory Monitoring: Monitor for future city-specific STR ordinances
3. Compliance Priority: Focus on building code compliance and zoning adherence
4. Professional Consultation: Consider engaging with planning professionals for complex projects

Action Items for Potential Investors

1. Verify Zoning: Confirm STR use is permitted in your target property's zoning district
2. Building Assessment: Ensure property meets current building codes
3. Schedule Inspection: Plan for the required three-year inspection cycle
4. Tax Compliance: Research and comply with any local accommodation tax requirements
5. Professional Consultation: Engage with City Administrator for guidance on specific projects

Important Disclaimer: This guide is based on publicly available information as of the source compilation date. Regulations can change rapidly. Always verify current requirements with official city sources before making investment decisions.