Long Term Rentals
Rental Licensing
The Duluth Fire Department's Life Safety Division oversees rental licensing and inspections to help ensure rental properties meet minimum housing and safety standards. Property owners are required to obtain the appropriate rental license before renting their property.
Long-Term Rental Licenses
Rental stays of 30 days or longer
A Long-Term Rental License is required for residential properties rented for extended stays of 30 days or longer. The following information applies to one- and two-family dwellings.
Application Fees
A one-time $1,500 conversion fee applies to qualifying one-family rental properties. This fee is assessed only once, provided the rental license is continuously maintained.
Two-family dwelling rental licenses do not require a conversion fee.
- Tri-annual Fees:
- Base fee - $325
- Room/unit fee - $40/room
- Non-conforming parking - $100/space
Off-Street Parking Requirements
Property owners must provide a minimum of two off-street parking spaces for rental properties with up to three bedrooms. An additional parking space is required for each bedroom beyond three.
Each parking space must measure at least 9 feet wide by 17 feet long.
Required Parking Spaces for Multi-Tenant Rental Licenses
| Number of Bedrooms | Required Parking Spaces |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 2 Spaces |
| 2 Bedrooms | 2 Spaces |
| 3 Bedrooms | 2 Spaces |
| 4 Bedrooms | 3 Spaces |
| 5 Bedrooms | 4 Spaces |
| 6 Bedrooms | 5 Spaces |
What if my property does not have enough parking?
If a code official determines that adequate space is available on the property, the owner may be required to construct additional off-street parking spaces that meet City Code requirements.
If adequate parking cannot be provided, a $100 nonconforming parking fee applies for each required parking space that cannot be accommodated.
Application & Inspection Process
Once the Life Safety Division receives a completed rental license application and all required fees, an initial inspection will be scheduled within 7–10 business days.
The licensing process includes:
-
Submit Your Application: Complete the rental license application and submit all required fees.
-
Initial Inspection: A code official will inspect the property to identify any housing code violations or required corrections.
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Make Necessary Corrections: If violations are identified, the property owner must complete the required corrections.
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Reinspection: If corrections are necessary, a follow-up inspection will verify that the property meets minimum housing code requirements.
-
License Issuance: Once the property meets all applicable requirements, the rental license will be issued.
Important: City ordinance requires property owners to obtain a rental license with an Issued status before renting out the property. Submitting an application does not authorize rental occupancy.
[Apply for a Long-Term Rental License]
Questions About Rental Licensing?
The Life Safety Division is available to assist property owners with rental licensing questions, inspection requirements, and the application process.
Contact the Life Safety Division
- Phone: 218-730-430
- Email: lifesafety@duluthmn.gov
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