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
The Zoning Department will not approve accessory structures. All rooms must be within the main dwelling unit. You'll need to make sure the property is properly zoned. Call the Zoning Department at 616-456-4100 to check the property zoning. Check before submitting your application to avoid long delays in processing your license.
- No more than 2 adult guests can rent the space for use overnight
- The dwelling must be your principal residence
- 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
There is a $405 application fee for new licenses. You can renew your first issuance twice. There is a $203 application fee for renewals.
After two renewals, you'll have to re-apply for a license and pay the $403 first issuance fee. All application fees are non-refundable. Here's a look at our accepted payment methods:
MAILED PAYMENTS
IN PERSON PAYMENTS
- Cash
- Check
- Money order
- Credit or debit cards (Visa, Discover, or MasterCard)
Make sure you have the appropriate payment ready. Refer to step 3 for accepted payment methods.
The Fire Department will contact you to schedule an inspection.
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.
We use a standard licensing year of July 1 through June 30 for all businesses. Your license will expire on June 30 regardless of when you apply. The fees are also the same no matter when you apply during the year. So make sure to plan accordingly.
You can renew your Home Occupation License for two years after your first issuance. Then you will need to re-apply and pay the first-issuance fee.