Are Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals Legal in Missouri? (2026)
Yes — Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Missouri as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: In February 2026, St. Louis began collecting a 3% tax on short-term rentals. During the same period, state-level bills (HB 1768, SB 1066) were introduced to prevent short-term rentals from being taxed at a commercial property rate, partly in anticipa...
Quick Answer
Short-term rentals are legal in Missouri. Enforcement is handled at the local level, with cities like St. Hosts should verify local ordinances and tax requirements before listing.
What the Law Says
Missouri has no statewide regulatory framework for short-term rentals, though a "Short Term Rental Freedom Act" has been proposed. All regulations are currently handled at the local level, with cities like Kansas City and St. Louis having specific permit requirements.
— Mo. Rev. Stat. § 137.018
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State-Level Rules | Legal; check local ordinances |
| Local Permit Requirements | Legal; may need business license |
| Violation Penalties | Must collect and remit applicable lodging/occupancy taxes. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In February 2026, St. Louis began collecting a 3% tax on short-term rentals. During the same period, state-level bills (HB 1768, SB 1066) were introduced to prevent short-term rentals from being taxed at a commercial property rate, partly in anticipation of the World Cup.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled at the local level, with cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia having specific permit and registration requirements. Fines for non-compliance can range from $200 to $1,000 per day.
A common violation is operating without the required local permit or registration. Another is failing to collect and remit the correct state and local sales and lodging taxes.
Local Exceptions
State law sets the baseline. These cities or counties have additional rules that may differ:
Bottom Line
Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Missouri. You can operating a short-term rental without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Missouri vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, operating a short-term rental is fully legal in 35 states, restricted in 15, and illegal in 0. Missouri falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Missouri Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Missouri — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.