Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a popular tourist destination known for its water parks, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly attractions. As such, there is a high demand for short-term rentals (STRs) like Airbnb and VRBO in the area. However, before starting an STR business in Wisconsin Dells, it's important to understand the local regulations.

In 2017, Wisconsin enacted a statewide law governing short-term rentals, known as the "Right to Rent" law. Under this law, no city, village, town, or county can prohibit rentals of residences for 7 consecutive days or longer. However, local governments can still place some restrictions on STRs, such as limiting the total number of rental days per year or requiring permits and licenses.

The City of Wisconsin Dells has its own ordinances related to short-term rentals. According to the city's zoning code, STRs are allowed in certain districts with a conditional use permit. The property must be the owner's primary residence, and rentals are limited to a maximum of 180 days per year.

To operate an STR in Wisconsin Dells, owners must:

• Obtain a tourist rooming house license from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). This requires passing an inspection and paying a $110 annual fee.
• Apply for a conditional use permit from the City of Wisconsin Dells Planning Commission. The application fee is $250.
• Register with the city clerk and provide contact information for a local property manager who can respond to any issues within 24 hours.
• Collect and remit state sales tax (5%) and local room tax (5%) on all rental transactions.
• Follow all building code, health, and safety requirements, such as having working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency lighting.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties. The city has the authority to revoke an STR permit for repeated violations.

Some Wisconsin Dells STR owners have expressed frustration with the local requirements, especially the 180-day rental limit. On the BiggerPockets forums, one investor noted: "180 days might sound like a lot, but in a seasonal market like the Dells, it can really cut into your peak summer earnings potential."

However, city officials maintain that the ordinances are necessary to balance the economic benefits of STRs with concerns about housing availability and neighborhood character. "We want to support our tourism economy, but we also need to ensure that we still have long-term rentals and workforce housing for our residents and employees," said the Wisconsin Dells planning director in a recent interview.

Despite the regulations, the STR market in Wisconsin Dells remains strong, with hundreds of active listings and high occupancy rates during peak season. Hosts can operate successful and compliant short-term rental businesses in this popular destination by carefully following all state and local requirements.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Wisconsin Dells

To operate and launch a short-term rental in Wisconsin Dells, property owners must obtain several licenses and permits at both the state and local levels.

First, all STR operators in Wisconsin must obtain a Tourist Rooming House License from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). This license is required for any property that is rented out to tourists or transients for periods of less than 30 consecutive days, with up to four units on the same property.

To obtain a Tourist Rooming House License, operators must:

1. Complete the DATCP licensing application form
2. Pass a pre-licensing inspection to ensure the property meets health and safety standards
3. Pay the $110 annual license fee, plus a one-time $300 pre-inspection fee

In addition to the state license, the City of Wisconsin Dells requires STR operators to obtain a local permit. According to the city's zoning ordinance, short-term rentals are only allowed in certain districts with a conditional use permit.

To obtain a conditional use permit, STR owners must:

1. Submit an application to the Wisconsin Dells Planning Commission, including a detailed site plan and floor plan of the property
2. Pay the $250 application fee
3. Attend a public hearing before the Planning Commission, where the application will be reviewed and approved or denied based on specific criteria

If approved, the conditional use permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The city also requires STR operators to register with the city clerk and provide contact information for a local property managerwho can respond to any issues within 24 hours.

Additional licensing requirements are required for properties located in the nearby Village of Lake Delton. Lake Delton requires all STRs to have a Property Manager Permit, issued to a local property manager overseeing multiple rental properties in the area.

The property manager must be located within 30 minutes of Lake Delton, hold a seller's and room tax permits, and have a written contract with the property owner. They are responsible for ensuring that each STR under their management complies with all village regulations.

It's important to note that failure to obtain the required state and local licenses can result in significant fines and penalties. In Wisconsin Dells, operating an STR without a conditional use permit is punishable by a fine of $500 per day.

STR operators should also be aware that licensing requirements are subject to change as local governments adapt to the evolving short-term rental market. In 2020, Wisconsin Dells modified its zoning rules for STRs in response to a state law limiting municipalities' ability to restrict short-term rentals.

To ensure compliance, prospective STR operators should always check with both the DATCP and their local city or village offices for the most up-to-date licensing information. Working with an experienced local property manager can also help navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

By obtaining all necessary licenses and permits, STR owners in Wisconsin Dells can operate their businesses legally and avoid costly fines or legal issues down the road. Proper licensing also helps ensure that rental properties meet important health and safety standards for the protection of guests and the community.

Required Documents for Wisconsin Dells Short-Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental (STR) in Wisconsin Dells, property owners must provide several documents to ensure compliance with state and local regulations. The specific requirements may vary depending on the property's exact location, as some areas, like the Village of Lake Delton, have additional rules beyond the city and state level.

Here are the key documents typically required for STRs in Wisconsin Dells:

1. Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House License Application

1. All STRs in Wisconsin must obtain a Tourist Rooming House License from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
2. The application requires information about the property, owner, and local contact person.
3. A license fee of $110 and a one-time pre-inspection fee of $300 must be submitted with the application.

2. City of Wisconsin Dells Conditional Use Permit Application

1. STRs in certain zoning districts require a Conditional Use Permit from the city.
2. The application must include a detailed site plan, floor plan, and proposed maximum occupancy.
3. A non-refundable application fee of $250 is required.

3. Proof of Insurance

1. STR owners must provide a certificate of insurance showing liability coverage for rental operations.
2. The City of Wisconsin Dells requires a minimum of $300,000 in liability insurance.

4. Property Management Agreement (if applicable)

1. A copy of the management agreement must be provided if the STR owner is using a property management company.
2. This agreement should outline the responsibilities of the manager, such as handling bookings, cleaning, and guest issues.

5. Room Tax Permit Application

1. STR owners must apply for a room tax permit to collect and remit the required taxes on rental income.
2. In Wisconsin Dells, this includes the 5% state sales tax and the 5% municipal room tax.

6. Seller's Permit

If the STR owner is selling any additional goods or services to guests, such as food, beverages, or souvenirs, a seller's permit from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue is required.

7. Register of Guests Form

1. The City of Wisconsin Dells requires STR owners to maintain a register of all guests, including names, addresses, and dates of stay.
2. This register must be available for city officials to inspect upon request.

8. Inspection Reports

• Before issuing a license or permit, the STR property must pass several inspections to ensure compliance with health, safety, and building codes.
• Inspection reports from the fire department, building inspector, and health department may be required as part of the application process.

In addition to these core documents, some STR owners may need to provide additional information depending on their specific circumstances, such as:

• A Conditional Use Permit from the Village of Lake Delton if the property is located there
• A Property Manager Permit, if using a property manager in Lake Delton
• Zoning approval or a variance if the property does not meet standard STR zoning requirements
• Copies of past guest reviews or rental history, if available, to demonstrate responsible rental practices

It's important for STR owners to work closely with their local city and village offices to understand all document requirements, as missing or incomplete paperwork can delay the licensing and permitting process. Starting the application process early and being proactive about compliance can help ensure a smooth start to an short-term rental business in Wisconsin Dells.

Wisconsin Dells Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental owners in Wisconsin Dells are required to collect and remit several taxes on their rental income. These taxes apply to any residential dwelling rental for periods of less than 30 consecutive days, including rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

The two main taxes that STR owners must collect are:

1. Wisconsin State Sales Tax

• Wisconsin's state sales tax rate is 5% on all short-term rental transactions.
• STR owners must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to obtain a seller's permit and remit the collected sales tax on a quarterly basis.

2. Wisconsin Dells Room Tax

• The City of Wisconsin Dells imposes an additional 5% room tax on all short-term rental income.
• This tax is used to fund tourism promotion and infrastructure in the area.
• STR owners must apply for a room tax permit from the city and remit the collected tax on a monthly basis.

In total, guests staying at short-term rentals in Wisconsin Dells can expect to pay a combined tax rate of 10% on their rental charges (5% state sales tax + 5% local room tax).

It's important to note that these taxes must be collected on the total rental amount, including any cleaning fees, pet fees, or other additional charges. STR owners should clearly communicate the tax requirements to guests and include the taxes in their advertised rates to avoid confusion.

Failure to comply with tax collection and remittance requirements can result in significant penalties and interest charges. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue can assess a penalty of up to 25% of the unpaid tax, plus interest at a rate of 1% per month. The City of Wisconsin Dells can also impose fines and revoke an STR's operating permit for non-compliance.

To help ensure compliance, many STR owners use vacation rental software or bookkeeping services to automatically calculate and collect the required taxes from guests. Some platforms like Airbnb also offer tax collection services, where they will collect the taxes on behalf of the host and remit them to the appropriate authorities.

However, even if using a third-party service, STR owners are ultimately responsible for ensuring that all taxes are properly collected and remitted. It's recommended to keep detailed records of all rental transactions, tax collections, and remittances in case of an audit.

In addition to the state and local taxes, STR income is also subject to federal income tax. Owners must report their rental income on their annual tax return and pay the appropriate tax based on their total earnings. Certain expenses related to operating the STR, such as cleaning fees, supplies, and maintenance costs, may be tax-deductible.

Given the complexity of tax requirements for short-term rentals, many STR owners work with a tax professional or accountant specializing in vacation rental properties. They can provide guidance on tax compliance, record-keeping, and maximizing deductions to minimize the overall tax burden.

By staying informed about and compliant with all state, local, and federal tax obligations, STR owners in Wisconsin Dells can avoid costly penalties and run a successful and profitable rental business. Proper tax management is a key responsibility of any short-term rental operator.

Wisconsin Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In addition to the specific regulations in Wisconsin Dells, state-wide rules apply to short-term rentals (STRs) across Wisconsin. These rules provide a framework for local governments to follow and enforce.

The primary state law governing STRs is the Wisconsin Room Tax Law, which requires all owners of short-term rentals to obtain a license from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). This law applies to any property that is rented out to tourists or transients for periods of less than 30 consecutive days.

Under the Room Tax Law, STR owners must:

1. Obtain a Tourist Rooming House License from the DATCP – This requires passing a health and safety inspection and paying an annual fee of $110.

• Collect and remit state sales tax (5%) on all rental transactions – Owners must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to obtain a seller's permit.
• Comply with local room tax requirements – Many cities and counties impose additional room taxes on STRs, which must be collected and remitted to the local government.

In 2017, Wisconsin also passed the Short-Term Rental Law, which prohibits local governments from banning STRs outright. Under this law, cities and counties cannot prohibit rentals of 7 days or longer, and cannot require a minimum stay of more than 7 days.

However, the law does allow local governments to regulate STRs in other ways, such as:

• Requiring permits or licenses
• Limiting the total number of rental days per year
• Restricting the number of occupants or vehicles
• Enforcing noise, parking, or other nuisance ordinances

Many local governments in Wisconsin have used this authority to implement their own STR regulations. For example, the City of Milwaukee requires all STR operators to obtain a $100 permit and limits rentals to 180 days per year. Door County limits STRs to only certain zoning districts and requires a 7-day minimum stay.

At the state level, there have been ongoing debates about the impact of STRs on housing affordability and neighborhood character. In 2019, Governor Tony Evers proposed a budget item that would have allowed municipalities to prohibit STRs in certain areas, but this provision was ultimately removed from the final budget.

STR advocates argue that the rentals provide important income for homeowners and support the state's tourism economy. However, critics argue that the proliferation of STRs is contributing to housing shortages and changing the fabric of residential neighborhoods.

As the STR market continues to grow in Wisconsin, it's likely that the regulatory landscape will also continue to evolve. STR owners should stay informed about any changes to state or local laws that could impact their business.

It's also important for STR operators to maintain positive relationships with their neighbors and local officials. Being a responsible and respectful host, and promptly addressing any concerns or complaints, can help build goodwill and avoid potential regulatory backlash.

Overall, while Wisconsin has a relatively permissive environment for short-term rentals compared to some states, owners still need to navigate a complex web of state and local regulations. Failure to comply with licensing, tax, and other requirements can result in significant fines and legal consequences.

By staying informed, proactive, and professional, STR owners in Wisconsin can operate successful and compliant businesses while contributing positively to their local communities. The key is to find a balance between the economic benefits of STRs and the need to preserve the quality of life for all residents.

Does Wisconsin Dells Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in online short-term rental forums like BiggerPockets and Reddit, it appears that Wisconsin Dells does enforce its STR regulations, but perhaps not as aggressively as some larger cities. While the city requires licenses and permits for all STRs, the general consensus among hosts is that the process is relatively straightforward, and the city is not actively seeking out violators.

On the BiggerPockets forums, one host shared their experience: "I've been operating an Airbnb in the Dells for three years now, and while I did have to jump through some hoops to get my license and permit, the city has been pretty easy to work with overall. They're not out there hunting down unlicensed rentals, but they do expect you to follow the rules."

Another host on Reddit commented, "Wisconsin Dells is definitely more STR-friendly than some of the bigger cities in Wisconsin like Milwaukee or Madison. Those places have much stricter regulations and enforcement. In the Dells, as long as you get your licenses and pay your taxes, they mostly leave you alone."

However, this doesn't mean that STR operators in Wisconsin Dells can completely fly under the radar. The city does have the authority to issue fines and revoke permits for non-compliance, and they have done so in cases of repeated violations or neighbor complaints.

One BiggerPockets user cautioned, "Don't think you can just ignore the rules in the Dells. I know of one guy who thought he could skirt the licensing requirements, and he ended up getting hit with a big fine from the city. It's not worth the risk."

Compared to other popular tourist destinations, Wisconsin Dells falls somewhere in the middle in terms of STR friendliness. It's not as lenient as some beach or mountain towns with little to no regulation, but it's also not as restrictive as major cities that have cracked down hard on STRs.

The city's approach seems to be one of balanced regulation - they want to allow STRs to support the tourism economy, but they also want to ensure a level playing field for all lodging providers and protect the quality of life for local residents.

This balanced approach is reflected in the city's recent decision to limit STRs to 180 rental days per year. While some hosts argue that this limit is too restrictive, city officials believe it strikes the right balance between allowing STRs and preserving long-term housing stock.

As one Reddit user put it, "Wisconsin Dells is a tourist town, so they're not going to ban STRs outright. However, they also don't want the city to turn into one big Airbnb. The 180-day rule is their way of trying to find a middle ground."

Overall, while Wisconsin Dells does enforce its STR regulations, it is generally considered a more Airbnb-friendly market than some other parts of Wisconsin or the country. Hosts following the rules and operating responsibly can succeed in this popular Midwest destination.

The key takeaway for STR operators in Wisconsin Dells is to do your due diligence, obtain all necessary licenses and permits, and be a good neighbor. Hosts can run profitable and compliant STR businesses in this thriving tourism hub by working within the system and maintaining open communication with the city and community.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Wisconsin Dells

Starting a short-term rental business in Wisconsin Dells can be lucrative, given the city's popularity as a tourist destination. Here are the key steps to get started:

1. Research the local market and regulations

• Analyze the demand for short-term rentals in Wisconsin Dells, especially near popular attractions like water parks and outdoor recreation areas.
• Familiarize yourself with Wisconsin's state-wide short-term rental laws, such as the requirement to obtain a tourist rooming house license from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
• Understand any additional local regulations set by the City of Wisconsin Dells or nearby municipalities like Lake Delton, such as zoning restrictions or permit requirements.

2. Choose a suitable property

• Decide whether you want to purchase a property or rent one to sublease on Airbnb and VRBO (known as rental arbitrage).
• Look for properties that meet the needs of your target guests, such as families or adventure seekers. Consider factors like location, size, amenities, and parking.
• Ensure the property complies with all state and local regulations for short-term rentals.

3. Obtain necessary licenses and permits

• Apply for a tourist rooming house license from the DATCP, which involves passing an inspection and paying a fee.
• Register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to obtain a seller's permit for collecting state sales tax.
• Obtain any required permits from the City of Wisconsin Dells, such as a conditional use permit if your property is located in certain zoning districts.

4. Prepare your property for guests

• Furnish and decorate your rental to be attractive, comfortable, and functional for guests. Consider hiring a professional photographer to showcase your property in its best light.
• Ensure your property meets all health and safety requirements, such as having working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and adequate emergency lighting.
• Create a welcome book with house rules, local recommendations, and important contact information.

5. Set up your business operations

1. Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.) and open a separate bank account for your rental business.
2. Obtain appropriate insurance coverage, including liability insurance and any additional coverage required by your lender or municipality.
3. Develop a system for managing bookings, guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance. Consider using vacation rental software to automate tasks and streamline operations.

6. Create your online listing and market your property

1. List your property on popular vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Write compelling descriptions and titles that highlight your property's unique selling points.
2. Set competitive nightly rates based on your research of similar properties in the area and your operating costs.
3. Develop a marketing strategy to attract guests, such as social media advertising, email marketing, or partnering with local businesses and attractions.

7. Launch your rental and provide excellent guest service

1. Once your listing is live and you start receiving bookings, communicate promptly and professionally with guests.
2. Ensure your property is clean, well-maintained, and fully stocked with essentials before each guest arrives.
3. Be available to address any guest questions or concerns during their stay, either in person or through a local property manager.
4. Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews, which can help attract future bookings.

8. Comply with ongoing regulations and taxes

1. Stay up-to-date with any changes to state or local short-term rental laws and adjust your operations accordingly.
2. Collect and remit all required taxes, including state sales tax (5%), local room tax (varies by municipality), and any county or premier resort area taxes that may apply.
3. Maintain accurate records of all rental income and expenses for tax purposes, and consider working with a tax professional to ensure compliance.

By following these steps and providing a high-quality guest experience, you can build a successful short-term rental business in Wisconsin Dells. While the regulatory landscape may seem complex, savvy investors can thrive in this popular Midwest vacation destination with proper planning and attention to detail.

Who to Contact in Wisconsin Dells about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Wisconsin Dells, you can contact several local government offices and departments for guidance.

1. City of Wisconsin Dells Community Development Department – The Community Development Department oversees the city's zoning, planning, and permitting. Contact them for questions about zoning districts, conditional use permits, and building codes related to short-term rentals.

Address: 300 La Crosse St, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Phone: (608) 254-7193
Email: communitydevelopment@wisconsindells.net

2. City of Wisconsin Dells Clerk's Office – The Clerk's Office handles licensing and registration for businesses operating in the city, including short-term rentals. Contact them for questions about the city's room tax, seller's permits, and other business licensing requirements.

Address: 300 La Crosse St, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Phone: (608) 254-2012
Email: cityclerk@wisconsindells.net

3. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) – The DATCP regulates tourist rooming houses in Wisconsin, which includes most short-term rentals. Contact them for questions about the state's licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and inspection processes.

Phone: (608) 224-4923
Email: datcpdfslicensing@wisconsin.gov

4. Wisconsin Department of Revenue – The Department of Revenue administers the state's sales tax and other business tax requirements. Contact them for questions about registering for a seller's permit, collecting and remitting sales tax, and filing tax returns.

Phone: (608) 266-2776
Email: DORBusinessTax@wisconsin.gov

5. Lake Delton Village Hall – If your short-term rental is located in the nearby Village of Lake Delton, you'll need to contact their village hall for information on local regulations and permits. Lake Delton has its own room tax and licensing requirements separate from Wisconsin Dells.

Address: 50 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy S, Lake Delton, WI 53940
Phone: (608) 254-2012
Email: info@lakedelton.org

In addition to these official government resources, you may also want to connect with local short-term rental associations or property management companies. These organizations can provide valuable insights into the local market, best practices, and regulatory changes.

Some helpful industry contacts in the Wisconsin Dells area include:

1. Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau
Phone: (800) 223-3557
Email: info@wisdells.com

2. Wisconsin Vacation Rental Managers Association
Email: info@wvrma.org

3. Dells Rental Management
Phone: (608) 254-8406
Email: info@dellsrental.com

By reaching out to these local government offices and industry contacts, you can get the most up-to-date and accurate information about short-term rental regulations in Wisconsin Dells. It's important to establish open lines of communication and build positive relationships with these entities to ensure your rental business's long-term success and compliance.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Wisconsin Dells on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

To get a sense of what short-term rental hosts in Wisconsin Dells think about the local regulations, let's take a look at some discussions on popular online forums like Reddit and BiggerPockets.

Reddit - r/AirBnB - "Wisconsin Dells Regulations"

In this thread, a host asks for advice on navigating the short-term rental regulations in Wisconsin Dells. Several hosts chime in with their experiences, noting that while the city requires permits and licenses, the process is relatively straightforward compared to other markets. One host mentions that the city seems to prioritize safety and neighborhood concerns but generally supports the short-term rental industry.

BiggerPockets Forum - "Short-Term Rental Regulations in Wisconsin"

This discussion focuses on Wisconsin's state-wide regulations for short-term rentals, with several hosts sharing their experiences in different cities and counties. A few hosts from the Wisconsin Dells area note that the city's regulations are fairly typical for a tourist destination, with a focus on licensing, taxes, and zoning. They advise new hosts to do their due diligence and work closely with the city to ensure compliance.

Reddit - r/realestateinvesting - "Investing in Wisconsin Dells Vacation Rentals"

In this post, an investor asks for opinions on the viability of short-term rental investments in Wisconsin Dells, given the local regulations. Hosts familiar with the market share that while there are some hurdles to navigate, the strong demand from tourists makes it a profitable venture for those who follow the rules. They note that the city's 180-day rental limit can be a challenge, but that savvy hosts can still maximize their earnings during peak seasons.

BiggerPockets Forum - "Wisconsin Dells Rental Property Management"

This thread focuses on the pros and cons of using a local property management company for short-term rentals in Wisconsin Dells. Several hosts share that while management fees can eat into profits, having a local team to handle compliance and guest issues can be invaluable, especially for out-of-state investors. They note that a good property manager can help navigate the local regulations and maintain positive relationships with the city and neighbors.

Reddit - r/vrbo - "Wisconsin Dells Permit Process"

In this post, a host asks for advice on obtaining the necessary permits and licenses for a short-term rental in Wisconsin Dells. Other hosts share their experiences with the city's application process, noting that it can be time-consuming but is generally fair and transparent. They advise starting the process early and being proactive in communicating with city officials to avoid delays or issues.

Overall, the sentiment among short-term rental hosts in Wisconsin Dells seems to be that while the local regulations present some challenges, they are not insurmountable for those willing to do their homework and follow the rules. Hosts appreciate that the city has tried to balance the needs of the tourism industry with the concerns of local residents, even if they don't agree with every aspect of the regulations.

The general advice from experienced hosts is to take the time to understand the local requirements, work closely with the city and property managers, and be a responsible operator. By being proactive and professional, hosts can build successful short-term rental businesses in Wisconsin Dells while also being good neighbors and community members.

As one BiggerPockets user put it, "Wisconsin Dells is a great market for vacation rentals, but it's not the Wild West. You have to play by the rules and be a responsible host. If you do that, you can absolutely crush it in the Dells."

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.