The Carthage City Council has officially adopted new regulations governing short-term rentals following approval of Council Bill 26-35.
The ordinance amends Section 25-251 of the City of Carthage Code of Ordinances and adds short-term rentals as a designated special use subject to specific regulatory standards.
Key Provisions of the Ordinance
A short-term rental is defined as the rental of a dwelling unit or portion of a dwelling for lodging periods of fewer than 30 consecutive days.
The ordinance establishes a framework to ensure short-term rentals operate safely and, in a manner, consistent with residential neighborhoods.
Requirements include:
Permitting & Inspections:
Properties must obtain a Special Use Permit and pass a Certificate of Occupancy inspection before operating.
Ownership Changes:
Permits and certificates must be renewed upon a change of ownership.
Business Licensing:
Operators must maintain a valid City of Carthage business license.
Safety Compliance:
Properties must meet all building, fire safety, zoning, and property maintenance codes, including posted emergency evacuation plans.
Occupancy Limits:
Maximum occupancy is determined during inspection based on sleeping areas.
Local Contact Requirement:
A 24/7 local contact must be available to address concerns or emergencies.
Parking Standards:
Adequate off-street parking must be provided.
Signage Restrictions:
Limited signage is allowed with strict size and lighting limitations.
Event Prohibition:
Short-term rentals may not be used for events such as weddings, parties, or large gatherings.
Nuisance Prevention:
Rentals must not create issues such as excessive noise, trash, or traffic congestion.
How to Comply with Short-Term Rental Regulations
Property owners must complete the following steps before operating a short-term rental:
Verify eligibility
by contacting the City of Carthage Public Works Department to confirm the property qualifies.
Obtain approval
by securing a Special Use Permit.
Pass inspection
by completing a Certificate of Occupancy inspection prior to operation.
Meet all code requirements
, including building, fire, zoning, and property maintenance standards.
Obtain a business license
and maintain it in good standing.
Follow operational standards
, including occupancy limits, parking requirements, and maintaining a 24/7 local contact person.
Comply with use restrictions
, including prohibition of events, adherence to signage limits, and prevention of nuisances such as noise or trash.
Once approved, property owners must maintain ongoing compliance or risk penalties and possible permit revocation.
For any questions, please contact the Public Works office at 417-237-7010.
These requirements are designed to:
Protect public safety
Preserve neighborhood character
Ensure fair and consistent enforcement
Support responsible operation of short-term rentals throughout the community
ADA Accessibility Provision
The ordinance includes a voluntary ADA accessibility verification option. Property owners may request limited accessibility verification during their Certificate of Occupancy inspection if they wish to advertise the property as “ADA accessible.”
This verification is optional and does not constitute full ADA certification.
Accountability and Enforcement
Property owners are responsible for complying with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including taxes.
Violations may result in: Fines of up to $500 per day, Up to 90 days imprisonment or both.
Each day a violation continues is considered a separate offense.
The City Council may also impose additional conditions, or revoke permits if violations occur or if the use becomes detrimental to surrounding neighborhoods.
Effective Date
Ordinance 26-35 is now in effect and has been added to the City of Carthage Code of Ordinances.