Apply for a Home Occupation One-Room Rental License

Do you want to rent space in your home in Grand Rapids? You're in the right place to apply for a Home Occupation-Class B License for a One-Room Rental.

Online

Step 1.Check your eligibility

We only issue 200 licenses for one-room rentals per year. Make sure to get your application in as early as you can. You should know that you will not be able to claim 100% Principal Residence Exemption while renting out space in your home.

To get a Home Occupation Class B License for a one-room rental, make sure you have a valid driver's license and don't owe money to the City. We're unable to issue you a business license if you don't meet these requirements.

Unsure if you owe?

  • Check if you owe court fees, property taxes or parking tickets. Call the Treasurer's Office at 616-456-3020
  • Check if you owe taxes to the City. Call the Income Tax Department at 616-456-3415

Property Requirements

Contact the Planning Department at 616-456-4100 to confirm the property meets zoning requirements.  Check before submitting your application to avoid long delays in processing your license.

  • The dwelling must be your principal residence 
  • All rooms must be within the main dwelling unit
  • Rental rooms may not be located in accessory structures
  • No more than 2 adult guests can rent the space for use overnight
  • You must be in residence while renting the space
  • You must be sole owner, joint tenant, or joint tenant by the entireties of the real estate

Fire Inspection

Fire Inspections are done as needed at the discretion of the Fire Department. If one is required, the Fire Department will contact you to set it up.

Step 2.Gather your information

Here's a look at what you'll need to complete your application:

  • A floor plan of the entire home with the room to be rented clearly indicated
  • A letter of approval from authorized Condominium Association (if applicable)

Have questions? Give us a call at the number listed in the Contact Us section of this page. There are many things that you need to do to apply for the license. We also have resources to help you prepare your application:

Step 3.Have your payment ready

There is a $569 application fee for a first issuance of a license. The renewal fee is $206.

Step 4.Complete the online application

We use a third party system called Citizen Access for business license applications. If this is your first time using this system, it's a good idea to learn How to Create a Citizen Access Account.

Your application might take some time. That's why we recommend that you gather all the required information first.

Apply in English

Step 5.Prepare for your inspection

The Fire Department will contact you to schedule an inspection.

Step 6.We'll review your application

It takes us 5-10 business days to process applications. Keep in mind that it may take longer to process your application if we find that you need to make changes. We'll call or email you to let you know your license is ready. You can either pick it up from the office or we'll mail it to you.

The license must be displayed openly on the property where all customers can see.

Step 7.Renew your license

All licenses are good for one year from when they are issued. Make sure to note your expiration date so you renew your license on time next year.

Paper Form

Phone

In Person