Executive Overview

Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Aurora, MN. The City has established a clear regulatory framework for both short-term and long-term rentals, with specific licensing requirements, fees, and compliance standards that took effect in 2023.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Aurora, MN

Step-by-Step Process

1. Obtain City License: Apply for a Short-Term Rental license through Aurora City Hall (Annual fee: $100)
2. State Registration: Register with the Minnesota Department of Health and provide proof of registration
3. Tax Setup: Register and collect 3% Lodging Tax (per Aurora Code Chapter 35)
4. Insurance Verification: Maintain homeowner's insurance (specific coverage requirements apply)
5. Compliance Standards: Ensure full compliance with city performance standards and applicable state regulations
6. Application Submission: Submit completed application to Aurora City Hall with required fees

Licensing Distinctions

Short-Term Rentals: Rental periods of 30 days or less, require licensing, and must comply with performance standards.

Long-Term Rentals: Rental periods exceeding 30 days, require separate licensing, home inspections, and proof of insurance.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City Requirements

Short-Term Rental License

• Annual fee: $100.00
• Application available at Aurora City Hall or online
• Must include proof of Minnesota Department of Health registration
• Must comply with city performance standards

Long-Term Rental License

• Annual fee: $100.00
• Requires home inspection by certified inspectors
• Must provide proof of insurance from home insurance provider
• Registration and posting license required

State Requirements

Minnesota Department of Health Registration

• Mandatory for all short-term rental operators
• Ensures compliance with health and safety standards
• Professional inspectors review properties for safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, and egress

Tax Requirements

3% Lodging Tax

• Required for both short-term and long-term rental operations
• Collected per Aurora Code Chapter 35
• Must be imposed on all rental transactions

Specific Regulations

City of Aurora Regulations

Definition: Short-term rentals are properties offered for rental periods of 30 days or less.

Performance Standards: All short-term rentals must comply with city-established performance standards. Specific details are available through the City Clerk's office.

Health and Safety: Short-term rentals must meet state health department requirements, including adequate drinking water, sanitation facilities, and proper egress.

Business License: No additional business license is required beyond the city's rental licensing.

St. Louis County Context

Aurora is one of several cities that administer their own zoning ordinances. St. Louis County's short-term rental regulations do not apply to Aurora properties as the city maintains local zoning authority. Aurora falls under the following counties/cities with autonomous zoning administration:

Exempt Cities: Aurora, Babbitt, Biwabik, Brookston, Buhl, Chisholm, Cook, Duluth, Ely, Eveleth, Floodwood, Gilbert, Hermantown, Hibbing, Hoyt Lakes, Iron Junction, Kinney, Leonidas, McKinley, Meadowlands, Mountain Iron, Orr, Proctor, Rice Lake, Tower, Virginia, Winton

State of Minnesota Requirements

Health Department Registration: All short-term rental properties must be registered with the Minnesota Department of Health. The MDH provides qualified inspectors who review properties for:

• Safe and adequate drinking water
• Proper sanitation facilities
• Adequate egress routes
• Other safety and habitability standards

Contact Information

Primary Authority

City of Aurora - Clerk's Office

• Address: P.O. Box 160, 16 W. 2nd Ave. N., Aurora, MN 55705
• Phone: (218) 229-2614
• Fax: (218) 217-4073
• Email: cityclerk@ci.aurora.mn.us
• Website: www.aurora-mn.com/

Application and Licensing

• Applications available at City Hall or via city website
• Return applications in-person or by mail to the Clerk's Office
• Processing typically requires business days; confirm current timelines

State Authority

Minnesota Department of Health

• Registration required for all short-term rentals
• Professional inspection services available
• Contact city clerk for specific MDH contact information

Source References

1. City of Aurora Rental Ordinances FAQ: www.aurora-mn.com/how_do_i_(faq/rental_ordinances_1.php
2. St. Louis County Short-Term Rental Regulations: www.stlouiscountymn.gov/departments-a-z/planning-zoning/land-use/short-term-rentals
3. City of Aurora Rental Ordinance Update: www.aurora-mn.com/news_detail_T29_R45.php

Compliance Timeline

The rental licensing ordinances took effect on August 1, 2023. Properties operating as short-term or long-term rentals must be licensed and compliant with all applicable regulations. Non-compliance may result in penalties per the ordinance and fee schedule adopted by the City Council.

Additional Resources

• Planning and Zoning Department: Available for property-related questions
• Application Packets: Complete rental application packets available at City Hall
• Certified Inspector List: Provided with long-term rental application packets

Important Note: This guide is based on current regulations as of the provided sources. Investors should verify current requirements with Aurora City Hall before proceeding with licensing, as regulations may be subject to updates or amendments.