Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Clear Lake, MN?

YES, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Clear Lake, MN. Clear Lake is located in Chisago County, Minnesota, and falls under the Chisago County Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance (#060320-1) adopted on June 3, 2020. This ordinance allows private vacation rental homes while establishing standards to mitigate adverse impacts on health, safety, welfare, and quality of life of surrounding properties.

The ordinance applies to all areas within Chisago County, including both incorporated (city) and unincorporated (township) areas. Clear Lake is in an unincorporated area of the county, making it subject to these county-wide regulations unless the township has enacted additional restrictions.

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

Starting a short-term rental business in Clear Lake requires following a structured process under Chisago County regulations:

Step 1: Research Local Requirements

Before purchasing or converting a property, verify that short-term rentals are permitted under township zoning regulations. Contact the township where your property is located for any additional local restrictions.

Step 2: Obtain Required County License

All short-term rental properties in Chisago County must obtain and maintain an annual Short-Term Rental Housing License from the Chisago County Environmental Services Department.

Step 3: Complete Online Application

Submit your application through the county's online system:

• Online Short-Term Rental Housing License Application
• Complete all required information and upload all required documents
• Pay the annual license fee of $400 (subject to change)
• Submit application prior to renting the property

Step 4: City/Township Acknowledgment (if applicable)

Since Clear Lake is in an unincorporated area, this step may not be required, but verify with local township authorities.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documents for License Application:

1. Floor Plan - Detailed layout of the property
2. Septic Certification - Required if property uses septic system
3. Proof of Property Liability Insurance Coverage - Must cover commercial liability
4. Proof of Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) License - Current lodging license or acknowledgment of pending review

Key Permits and Licenses:

• Chisago County Short-Term Rental Housing License (annual, $400)
• Minnesota Department of Health Lodging License
• Property Liability Insurance with commercial coverage

Guidelines and Standards:

• Compliance with all applicable township ordinances
• Proper septic system maintenance or sewer connection
• Liability insurance suitable for commercial use
• No past due property taxes
• Proper waste management and disposal systems

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Chisago County Regulations:

Operational Requirements:

• Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM - indoor/outdoor activity must not exceed general conversation level
• Parking: Must be completely on-site in designated improved spaces; no parking on yards, boulevards, or septic systems
• Occupancy: Follow posted maximum occupancy limits
• Waste Management: Garbage, refuse, and recycling in fly-tight, watertight, rodent-proof containers stored in buildings or screened enclosures
• Property Management: Owner must maintain guest registration and provide contact information

Owner Responsibilities:

• Provide property contact information to county, renters, and adjacent landowners
• Distribute rental information to guests including:
  • Maximum occupancy limits
  • Emergency contacts (police, fire, hospital, septic pumper)
  • Rental unit address
  • Operational guidelines and rules
  • Proof of license and any restrictions
• Post rental unit address clearly outside, visible from street
• Enforce quiet hours, vehicle parking, and site use standards

State and Local Compliance:

• Note: County ordinance does not ensure compliance with Minnesota State Fire Code or MDH rules
• Owners must comply with all local, state, and federal laws
• Must disclose compliance to all renters during occupancy

Enforcement and Penalties:

• Violations: Misdemeanor offense
• Penalties: Up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, or both
• License Forfeiture: Applicable rental license may be forfeited
• License Revocation: May occur with non-compliance or 3+ substantiated complaints within license period

Contact Information

Primary Authority:

Chisago County Environmental Services Department

• Address: 313 N Main St, Suite 240, Center City, MN 55012
• Phone: 651-213-8370
• Fax: 651-213-8385
• General County Phone: 651-257-1300
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Code Enforcement Officer:

Dan Cahill - Code Enforcement Officer

• Email: Email Dan Cahill
• Phone: 651-213-8370

24/7 Reporting Hotline:

Hotline Number: 651-374-9393

• For non-emergency incidents involving short-term rental properties
• Do not use for emergencies - dial 9-1-1 for immediate health/safety situations

Minnesota Department of Health:

• General Number: 651-201-4500
• MDH Local Book: Updated contact information for lodging staff across the state
• Website: MDH Lodging Information

Additional Resources:

• Host Compliance Tips: Online reporting system
• Chisago County Septic Compliance: Septic Information Page
• City Contact Information: Cities in Chisago County

Source Links

• Primary Source: Chisago County Short-Term Rentals
• Chisago County License Application: Online Short-Term Rental Application
• Minnesota Department of Health Lodging: MDH Website
• MDH Local Contact Information: MDH Local Book
• Host Compliance Reporting: Tips Page
• Chisago County Septic Information: Septic Compliance Page
• Chisago County Cities: City Contact Information

This guide provides comprehensive information for investors looking to operate short-term rentals in Clear Lake, MN. All regulations and requirements are subject to change, so investors should verify current requirements with the Chisago County Environmental Services Department before proceeding with property acquisition or license applications.