How do short-term rental rules work in Harbor Country and Northwest Indiana?

How do short-term rental rules work in Harbor Country and Northwest Indiana?

They’re hyper-local: each city/township can set licensing, caps, inspections, fees, and “good neighbor” rules. Translation: an STR can be an asset—or a compliance trap—depending on the exact jurisdiction.

Harbor Country examples (real-world)

• City of New Buffalo: has an STR program with published fees/forms and requirements.

• Chikaming Township (Union Pier/Lakeside/Sawyer area): STR permitting with inspections for new rentals.

• Village of Three Oaks: ordinances exist and the village site indicates currently not accepting new applications (a huge deal for investors).

Northwest Indiana examples (real-world)

• Town of Long Beach (IN): the town has published guidance stating rentals under 30 days are prohibited (verify current enforcement posture before buying for STR).

• Michigan City (IN): the city provides an online permitting portal and has STR ordinance documentation.

STR due diligence that prevents expensive mistakes

• Confirm: license availability, caps, transferability, inspections, local agent requirements

• Check: HOA/condo rules (often stricter than the city)

• Underwrite: off-season revenue + cleaning/management + repairs + reserves