Columbia, MO STR Ordinance

May 14, 2025
2 min read

The City of Columbia, Missouri, has implemented a new short-term rental (STR) ordinance that took effect on June 1, 2024. All STR operators must comply with the ordinance requirements by June 1, 2025.

Key Requirements for STR Operators

Licensing and Compliance: Operators are required to obtain a business license and a certificate of compliance. Some may also need a conditional use permit, depending on the property's specifics.
Occupancy Limits: Each STR is limited to a maximum of eight occupants, subject to the property's size and available parking.
License Limitations: An owner or ownership entity (e.g., LLC, corporation, or trust) is limited to one STR license.
Registration and Inspection: All STRs must be registered and pass an inspection as per Chapter 22, Article 5 of the City Code.
Local Agent Requirement: If the operator is unavailable, a designated agent located within Boone County must be available to respond to complaints 24/7.
On-Site Information Posting: STRs must display the certificate of compliance, contact information for the owner and designated agent, emergency contact numbers, occupancy limits, and an emergency evacuation route map within the unit.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): If a property has an ADU, only one dwelling (either the primary residence or the ADU) can be used as an STR.

Tiered STR System

The ordinance introduces a three-tier system with varying rental limitations:

Tier 1: Allows rentals up to 30 days per year.
Tier 2: Allows rentals up to 120 days per year.
Tier 3: Allows year-round rentals.

Each tier has specific requirements and may necessitate a conditional use permit.

Additional Considerations

Insurance: Operators are required to have business liability insurance covering bodily injury, including accidental death, and property damage arising from STR activities.
Taxation: Operators must pay applicable nightly accommodation taxes to the City of Columbia.
Deadlines: If a conditional use permit is required, applications need to be processed before the June 1 compliance deadline.

For more detailed information or assistance, you can contact the City of Columbia's Community Development Department at Planning@CoMo.gov or call 573-874-7239.