Are short-term rentals allowed in Ferndale?

Yes. Short-term rentals are a permitted use with additional standards in every district from R-1 through the CBD (Section 2.05). You do not need a variance or special land use approval to operate one in a residential zone.

However, zoning permission is only half the picture. Short-term rentals also require licensing under City Code Chapter 7-VII-3, which the zoning code cross-references in Section 5.23. The license is a separate process from any building or zoning review, so plan on completing both.

If the unit is part of a home that also runs a home-based business, the separate home-based business conditions in Section 5.06 apply to that activity.

For current licensing requirements, fees, and application steps, contact CED at 248-336-4370 before listing the property. The city can confirm whether your specific property and unit count qualify.