Home Hosts News
☀️ Significant Win for STRs in Door County!
Thank you to the many Home Hosts members who have been active in promoting the fair application of STR regulations and challenging towns when licensing has been inappropriately denied.
Many of us have attended numerous meetings in Sister Bay over the last 24 months, and it’s gratifying to see the courts are behind the fairness we’ve been advocating for!
Last week, a Door County judge ruled in favor of an STR owner who challenged the town’s denial of their license renewal.
This is a great precedent for all Door County towns to follow in future decision-making regarding homes that should be grandfathered from new zoning codes. It also reinforces the importance of respecting property owners’ rights and due process regarding licensing and regulations.
The following article in this newsletter highlights the increased tax revenue, tourism impact, and jobs that tourism brings to Door County.
- Tourism supported 3,524 jobs in Door County in 2024, generating $124.3 million in labor income.
- Visitor-generated tax revenue in Door County contributed $53.3 million in state and local tax contributions, equating to a $3,706 REDUCTION in tax burden per household!
Each municipality in Door County directly receives 30% of the tourism tax revenue STRs generate in their community. These funds can be used at the town level for any purpose, such as on roads, in parks, etc.
As an STR owner, you can hold your head up high, knowing your property contributes to these community enhancements and funding of basic services that reduce residents’ taxes while contributing to the vitality and future of the Door County community!
🌟 Stay connected, stay informed, and, as always, stay proud to be part of a strong, united host network.
With gratitude,
Janet Slater
Board President, Home Hosts
News You Can Use
Door County Judge Rules in Favor of Sister Bay STR Owners Over Licensing Dispute
A Door County Circuit Court judge has ruled that Sister Bay cannot deny a short-term rental license based on parking code violations that are protected under state and village grandfathering laws. This decision marks a significant win for local STR owners, reinforcing homeowners’ rights and setting a potential precedent for future short-term rental regulations in the region.
Door County Tourism Revenue Surges to $651 Million in 2024
Door County’s visitor economy experienced substantial growth in 2024, generating $651.2 million in total economic impact—up 5.1% from the previous year—thanks to rising direct spending, job creation, and supportive tax revenue. This boom bolstered 3,524 local jobs, delivered $124.3 million in labor income, and contributed to $53.3 million in state and local taxes, easing the tax burden for residents.
