Chikaming Township Rental Program
Rental Permits
Public Notice:
Short-Term Rental Permit Applications Will Open on 3/23/26 @ 9:00 A.M.
Short-Term Rental Renewals/Applications
Rental Permits are Non-Transferable
All rental permits expire on January 15th of the year after they were issued. Permits are non-transferrable
If you have any further questions:
please email: rentals@chikamingtownship.org
Hotline: 269-231-3400
Short-Term Rental (STR) Permit Information:
Short-Term Rental (STR) permit applications will open at 9:00 AM on March 23, 2026.
As of March 20, 2026, it is anticipated that approximately 90 permits will be available. This number is subject to change, as late renewals will be accepted up until the application portal opens on March 23.
At 9:00 AM on March 23, the registration system will open for new applications. Applications will be accepted until the cap of 550 permits is reached and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Chikaming Township utilizes a third-party software portal for STR applications. The Township is not responsible for technical issues outside of its control that may impact access to or use of the system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can applications be submitted ahead of time?
No. Applications will only be accepted beginning at 9:00 AM on March 23, 2026.
Can I submit an application in person?
No. All applications must be submitted online through the application portal.
What documents are required at the time of application?
Applicants are encouraged to review STR Ordinance No. 164, which outlines all application requirements. The ordinance is available on the Rental Permits page of the Chikaming Township website.
What can I do to speed up the registration process?
Create a user account in the application portal in advance
Ensure all required documents are prepared and available in electronic format
Upload all required documentation at the time of submission
Applications will not be accepted without all required documentation.
What happens if the permit cap is reached?
Once the cap of 550 permits is reached, no additional applications will be accepted. Applicants may need to wait until the next permit cycle.
What happens after I submit an application?
Township staff will review your application and supporting documentation. Due to anticipated volume, review times may be longer than usual.
If your application is complete and compliant, you will receive an email with instructions to schedule a property inspection.
Short Term Rental(STR)
(Vacation rentals, rentals lasting less than 30 days at a time)
The Chikaming Township Board enacted a moratorium on new Short Term Rental licenses which expires on 3/23/2026. During this moratorium period, only properties with valid or pending 2025 licenses prior to 10/9/2025 will be allowed to renew for a 2026 license.
To renew an existing permit, or to update permit information, click here .
All new rentals will require a rental inspection; renewals will be inspected every other year.
Long Term Rental
(Rentals lasting a minimum of 31 days at a time, usually with a lease or rental agreement)
To apply for a new long-term permit please fill out the Rental permit application form along with the required documents listed on the form.
To renew an existing long-term rental permit please use the long-term rental permit renewal form.
You can drop the form and payment off at the Township Hall, or mail completed form and payment to:
Chikaming Township Rental Program
13535 Red Arrow Hwy
P.O. Box 40
Harbert, MI 49115
Fees and Fines
Permit Fees
STR Registration/Renewal - $250 and $250 per Bedroom
Long-term Registration - $50
Long-term Renewal (if renewed by Feb 1st) - $25
Rental Fines
Renting without a valid permit - 1.5 times the permit fee
Reinspection or no show for inspection - $50
*All rental permits expire on January 15th and must be renewed by February 1st
Currently fines cannot be paid online. Any additional fines need to be paid at the Township Office or by check mailed to:
Chikaming Township Rental Program
13535 Red Arrow Hwy
P.O. Box 40
Harbert, MI 49115
Rental Documents
If you have any further questions:
please email: rentals@chikamingtownship.org
Hotline: 269-231-3400