Executive Summary

Yes, short-term rentals ARE allowed in Friendship, Wisconsin. The Town of Friendship, located in Fond Du Lac County, has established specific licensing requirements and regulations for short-term rental operations. Investors must obtain an annual license from the Town, with renewals reviewed yearly in January.

Market Overview

Friendship, Wisconsin is a small town in Fond Du Lac County that offers unique opportunities for short-term rental investors. While smaller than major tourist destinations, the area provides access to outdoor recreational activities and maintains a "charming small town" atmosphere that appeals to guests seeking peaceful getaways.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Friendship, WI

Step 1: Initial Assessment

• Verify your property is located within Town of Friendship limits
• Confirm your property zoning allows for short-term rental use
• Review the Town's Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance

Step 2: License Application

• Complete the Short-Term Rental application form
• Submit required documentation (see permits section below)
• Pay applicable licensing fees
• Submit application to Town officials for review

Step 3: Compliance Setup

• Install required safety equipment per ordinance
• Establish tax collection procedures (5% Wisconsin state sales tax minimum)
• Create operational policies for guests

Step 4: Ongoing Management

• Prepare for annual license renewal process
• Maintain compliance with all regulations
• Monitor changes to local ordinances

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Municipal Requirements

• Short-Term Rental License (required annually)
• Building Permits (if renovations required)
• Special Exception Permit (if applicable to zoning)

Key Forms Available

1. Short Term Rental Application - Initial license application
2. Short-Term Rental Renewal Form - Annual renewal process
3. Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance - Governing regulations

State Requirements

• Wisconsin State Sales Tax registration and collection (5% minimum)
• Potential local room tax collection requirements

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Town of Friendship Requirements

License Duration and Renewal

• License Period: Annual licenses effective for one year
• Renewal Review Date: Second Thursday in January (regardless of original issue date)
• Renewal Deadline: Application must be submitted at least 45 days prior to license expiration
• Review Process: Town Board reviews all renewal applications

Operational Guidelines

• Must comply with all provisions of the Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance
• Property must meet all safety and zoning requirements
• Ongoing compliance monitoring required

Fond Du Lac County Requirements

• County-level zoning regulations may apply
• Building code compliance required for all structures
• Fire safety regulations enforced through Van Dyne Fire Department

Wisconsin State Requirements

• State Sales Tax: 5% minimum collection requirement
• Local Taxes: Additional room taxes may apply
• Business Registration: May be required for ongoing operations

Contact Information

Town of Friendship

Address:
W6931 County Rd N
Van Dyne, WI 54979

Phone: (920) 251-7025

Email: Contact through official website contact form

Website: www.townfriendship.com

Key Departments

• Town Board: Primary license approval authority
• Building Department: Permits and inspections
• Plan Commission: Zoning and special exception reviews
• Van Dyne Fire Department: Safety inspections and compliance

Source Links

Official Government Sources

• Town Website - STR Licensing Notice: www.townfriendship.com/news-and-notices/short-term-rental-licenses-notice/
• Town Website - STR Agreements: www.townfriendship.com/news-and-notices/short-term-rental-agreements/
• STR Licensing Ordinance: Direct PDF link available through town website
• STR Application Form: Direct PDF link available through town website
• STR Renewal Form: Direct PDF link available through town website

Additional Resources

• Town Ordinances: Available at www.townfriendship.com/town-ordinances
• Forms & Permits Section: www.townfriendship.com (under Community section)

Important Notes for Investors

1. Official Sources Only: Rely on Town of Friendship official documents and ordinances for definitive regulations
2. Annual Renewal Critical: Missing the 45-day renewal deadline could result in license lapse
3. Zoning Compliance: Ensure property zoning permits short-term rental use before investing
4. Tax Compliance: Wisconsin state sales tax collection is mandatory
5. Local Variations: Regulations may vary from nearby communities - confirm specific requirements for Friendship

Recommended Next Steps

1. Contact Town officials directly to discuss specific property requirements
2. Review complete licensing ordinance before making investment decisions
3. Consult with local real estate professionals familiar with Friendship regulations
4. Verify current zoning status of target properties
5. Establish relationship with Van Dyne Fire Department for safety compliance

This guide provides the foundation for STR investment in Friendship, Wisconsin. Always verify current requirements with official town sources before making investment decisions or beginning operations.