Short-Term Rental Guide for Benton Charter Township
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official policies or legal advice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the Benton Charter Township building department or relevant authorities.
Current Policy
Benton Charter Township does not currently have a dedicated short-term rental (STR) policy. Instead, short-term rentals follow the same rental property registration and inspection process as long-term rentals. Ensuring compliance with these standards helps maintain a safe, welcoming environment for your guests and the surrounding community.
Annual Rental Registration
- Fee: $50 (due before April 15 each year)
- Late Fee: $25 (if not renewed on time)
- Reinspection Fee: $75 (for unresolved violations)
- No-Show Fee: $50 (if access is not provided for inspection)
What You’ll Need:
- The owner or local manager’s contact information
- Completed rental registration form
Note: Properties must be registered before renting them out.
Inspection Requirements
Inspections focus on life safety issues, guided by the ICC Property Maintenance Code, ensuring your rental meets basic health and safety standards. Key points include:
- Fire Safety:
- Functional smoke detectors in every sleeping area and common space
- Accessible fire extinguishers
- Egress (Exits):
- Clear and properly maintained exits in all bedrooms and living areas
- General Structural Integrity:
- Compliance with basic building codes to ensure a safe environment
Tip: Using a safety checklist—like those provided by local municipalities—can help ensure you’re well-prepared for inspections.
Noise Ordinances & Quiet Hours
Local noise ordinances typically focus on activities like construction, allowing noisier work between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM. On Sundays and major holidays—such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day—there may be stricter limits. Although these guidelines are primarily for construction tools, applying them (or even more restrictive hours) to your rental can help prevent disturbances.
Best Practice: Set quieter house rules than the local minimum. For example, you might establish “no loud noise after 9:00 PM” and inform guests that large parties or excessive noise aren’t allowed. By proactively respecting your neighbors’ peace and quiet, you’ll reduce complaints and create a positive experience for everyone.
Occupancy & Parking Guidelines
The township may consider issues like overcrowding and parking under other city ordinances. A common guideline is:
- 1 parking space for the property itself
- 1 additional parking space per sleeping room
Enforcing these standards helps ensure your guests have the space they need while preventing street congestion and neighbor disputes.
Good Neighbor Policy
Establishing a clear, written “Good Neighbor Policy” can set expectations upfront:
- House Rules: List your noise policies, parking arrangements, and occupancy limits.
- Guest Agreement: Have guests acknowledge these rules before booking.
- Communication: Make it easy for guests to access information on local guidelines, so they understand and respect the community’s standards.
Why Compliance Matters
By following these guidelines—registering your property, meeting inspection requirements, respecting local ordinances on noise and parking, and setting proactive rules—you help ensure a positive reputation for your short-term rental. Strong compliance not only safeguards your investment but also promotes harmony within the neighborhood, ultimately leading to more satisfied guests and a smoother hosting experience.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended as a helpful resource and does not constitute legal advice or an official township policy. Requirements and ordinances may change. For official guidance, contact the Benton Charter Township building department directly.