Short-Term Rentals
Like the rules regarding many other types of business, the rules regarding the business of Short-Term Rentals (STR) can be complicated. In addition to a basic understanding of fundamentals, it is essential for anyone engaged in the business of STR to keep their knowledge base up to date.
The STR permitting process can involve all the various elements of property use including tax, licensing, and permit history, zoning restrictions, and code compliance. This website is for informational use - the enabling Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) which regulates STR in the City is the ultimate authority. STR permit holders and applicants are expected to know and understand the current rules and requirements of the business at the time they apply for an STR permit.
Note: the UDO can be found through the link above. The online version of the City Code/UDO is not the official version as amendments are made throughout the year and may not always reflect in the online copy.
Temporary Short-Term Rental Regulations for 2026 FIFA World Cup
On November 17, 2025, City Council adopted a resolution to establish temporary regulations for short-term rentals during the dates of June 1 - July 30, 2026 to accommodate an influx of visitors and tourism to the area during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. See the document below to view the details of the regulations. This resolution will not be available in the digital version of the UDO linked above.
Application Process
If you want to start operating a STR in the City of Independence, you must first apply for a Short-Term Rental Permit, which is reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission. To be considered, no Short-Term Rental can be within 500 feet of an existing Short-Term Rental. Please call 816-325-7823 before applying, to confirm your address is not within 500 feet of an existing Short-Term Rental.
To apply for an STR, you'll use our portal through the link below. Please note, that you'll be required to upload your Evacuation Plan, Floor Plan, Parking Plan and pay the fee through Stripe before the application is submitted.
Short term rental application (deckard.com)
Example Plans
Certifications you attest to, when submitting your application:
Short-Term Rental Certifications
Document required to be posted in an approved Short-Term Rental:
Please use this Complaint Form if you have a complaint about a Short-Term Rental. Our Business License staff will follow up on these complaints.
Transient Guest Tax and Short Term Rentals
Approved short-term rental operators are required to report and remit transient guest tax to the City of Independence on a monthly basis. For additional information, including how to report to the City, how transient guest tax applies to third-party booking platforms, and when payment is due, please review the informational letter below.
The Transient Guest Tax Remittance Form, along with instructions for completing the form and submitting payment, can also be found below.
If you have questions regarding filing requirements or need assistance completing the form, please contact the Finance Department at (816) 325-7066 or accountsreceivable@indepmo.org.