Chikaming Township

Rental Investment Guide

About Chikaming Township

Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Berrien County, Chikaming Township combines small-town charm with vibrant tourism. Home to the beach communities of Lakeside, Harbert, and Furnaceville, it attracts vacationers from Chicago (just 90 minutes away) and beyond. Investors in short-term and long-term rentals benefit from a strong summer influx, year-round festivals, and a tight-knit community that values quality properties and responsible hosting.

Public Notice

All rental permits expire on January 15 of the year after issuance. Permits not renewed by February 1 will incur a $100 late fee.

Renting without a valid permit will incur a $50 fee per occurrence (in addition to any late fee).

Applications are accepted year-round; however, early renewal ensures uninterrupted hosting during peak seasons.

Short-Term Rental (STR)

Defined as vacation rentals of less than 30 days per stay, STRs require a dedicated permit and inspection. With Chikaming’s busy summer months (June–August) often selling out, securing your permit early guarantees you can capitalize on high-demand weekends and holiday periods.

To apply for, renew, or update an STR permit, visit the Deckard portal:

STR Application & Renewal

Note: New STRs require an initial inspection; renewals may be inspected at the Township’s discretion.

Long-Term Rental

Rentals of 31 days or more under a lease agreement fall into the long-term category. These units cater to seasonal workers, snowbirds, and residents seeking multi-month stays.

Submit forms and payment in person or by mail to: Chikaming Township Rental Program
13535 Red Arrow Hwy
P.O. Box 40
Harbert, MI 49115

Fees & Fines

Permit Fees

STR Registration: $200
STR Renewal (by Feb 1): $200
Long-Term Registration: $50
Long-Term Renewal (by Feb 1): $25

Rental Fines

Renting without a valid permit: $50 per occurrence
Late Renewal (after Feb 1): $100
Reinspection or No-Show: $50

All permits expire on January 15; renew by February 1 to avoid late fees. Payments accepted at Township Hall or by check mailed to the address above.

Rental Documents

Office Hours & Holidays

Weekdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM)

2025 Closures: MLK Jr. Day (Jan 20), Good Friday (Apr 18), Memorial Day (May 26), Independence Day (Jul 4), Labor Day (Sep 1), Veteran’s Day (Nov 11), Thanksgiving (Nov 27–28), Christmas (Dec 24–25).

Quick Links

External Links

Contact: 269-469-1676 | Fax: 269-469-4416 13535 Red Arrow Highway
PO Box 40
Harbert, MI 49115