Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Redford, MI?

YES, short-term rentals are allowed in Redford, Michigan. However, it is important to understand that Redford Township does not have specific short-term rental ordinances. Instead, operators must comply with general rental property registration requirements, state tax obligations, and zoning regulations. This creates a more flexible regulatory environment compared to cities with strict STR-specific laws, but investors must still navigate several key requirements to operate legally.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Redford, MI

Step 1: Property Registration and Compliance

All rental properties in Redford Township must be registered with the Building and Safety Engineering Department before operating. This includes short-term rentals. The registration process requires:

• Submitting the Rental Property Registration form
• Providing a copy of your driver's license
• Paying the annual registration fee of $50.00
• Completing inspections as required

Step 2: Property Inspection Requirements

Properties must pass inspections to maintain compliance:

• Inspection fee: $200.00 every three years
• New rental properties: $250.00 one-time inspection fee
• Properties must meet safety and habitability standards

Step 3: Tax Registration and Collection

• Register with Michigan state tax authorities
• Collect and remit the 6% state use tax on all short-term rental bookings
• Maintain detailed records of all transactions for tax reporting

Step 4: Zoning Compliance Verification

Contact the Township Building Department to confirm that your property is in an appropriate zoning district for short-term rental operations, as certain residential zones may have restrictions.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Documentation Requirements:

1. Rental Property Registration Form (provided by Redford Township Building and Safety Engineering)
2. Valid Driver's License (copy required with registration)
3. Proof of Property Ownership or lease authorization
4. Michigan State Tax Registration for collecting/remitting use taxes
5. Insurance Documentation (recommended: comprehensive short-term rental insurance to protect against liability and property damage)

Safety and Compliance Guidelines:

• Smoke detectors in all bedrooms
• Carbon monoxide detectors on each finished floor
• Fire extinguisher availability
• Proper egress/exit signage as required by building codes
• Compliance with all local building and safety codes

Operating Guidelines:

• Maintain property in safe, habitable condition
• Respond promptly to tenant/guest issues
• Comply with state landlord-tenant laws
• Keep detailed records of all rental income and expenses
• Display relevant local ordinances in conspicuous locations

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Redford Township Requirements:

• No specific short-term rental ordinances exist
• General rental property registration mandatory
• Regular inspections required for code compliance
• Zoning restrictions may apply (verify with Building Department)

Michigan State Requirements:

• 6% Use Tax Collection on all short-term rental rates
• Compliance with Michigan Landlord-Tenant Laws
• State tax registration and remittance obligations

County Level (Wayne County):

• No specific short-term rental regulations identified
• General county health and safety codes apply

Important Considerations:

• Zoning Restrictions: Verify with local zoning department as certain residential zones may have limitations
• HOA Restrictions: If property is in a homeowners association, review governing documents for rental restrictions
• Insurance Requirements: Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover short-term rental activities; specialized STR insurance is highly recommended

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Regulatory Agency:

Charter Township of Redford Department of Building and Safety Engineering

• Address: 12200 Beech Daly, Redford Michigan 48239
• Phone: 313-387-2680
• Website: www.redfordtwp.com
• Function: Handles rental property registration, inspections, and general zoning compliance

Legal Proceedings (if needed):

17th Judicial District Court - Civil Division

• Address: 15111 Beech Daly Road, Redford, Michigan 48239
• Phone: 313-387-2790
• Function: Handles landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings

State Tax Information:

Michigan Department of Treasury

• Phone: 517-636-6925
• Website: www.michigan.gov/taxes
• Function: State tax registration, reporting requirements for use tax collection

Links to Source Pages

Official Redford Township Resources:

• Rental Property Registration Form
• Landlord-Tenant Information
• Redford Township Main Website

Industry Resources:

• Michigan STR Regulations Overview
• Redford Airbnb Market Analysis
• Redford Airbnb Management Information

State Resources:

• Michigan Court Forms
• Michigan Legal Help

Investment Considerations for STR Investors

Market Advantages:

• Proximity to Detroit provides steady demand from business travelers and tourists
• Lower property values compared to core Detroit markets
• No restrictive STR ordinances currently in place
• Moderate occupancy rates with seasonal variations

Regulatory Risks:

• Potential for future local ordinance development
• Need to monitor state legislative changes affecting STR operations
• Zoning compliance verification required for each property

Recommended Action Items:

1. Verify zoning compliance before property acquisition
2. Secure specialized STR insurance coverage
3. Establish relationship with local property management company if not self-managing
4. Implement comprehensive record-keeping systems for tax compliance
5. Consider professional consultation with local attorney familiar with Michigan landlord-tenant law

This regulatory environment offers flexibility for short-term rental investors while requiring careful attention to compliance with existing registration, inspection, and tax obligations. The absence of restrictive local ordinances creates opportunity, but investors must remain vigilant about regulatory changes and maintain strict compliance with all applicable requirements.