Short-term rentals in Cherokee County, Iowa, are formally regulated under a newly established ordinance, which classifies them similarly to hotels for tax purposes. These rentals, often referred to in local discussions as "short-term rentals," require operators to obtain a certificate and comply with specific safety standards, such as installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. The rentals permitted can have a maximum of five bedrooms and accommodate up to ten guests, not counting children under ten. The market in Cherokee County primarily serves tourists seeking rural and nature-based retreats, including cabins and lakeside homes, as well as business travelers needing interim lodging. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners oversees these regulations, ensuring compliance through a system of warnings and fines for violations. For further details, visit https://cherokeecounty.iowa.gov/departments/offices_f_-_z/zoning/index.php.