Short-term rentals (STRs) in Johnson County, Kansas, are regulated and must comply with local licensing requirements, specific to each city within the county. STRs are often referred to as "vacation rentals" or "short-term rental units." Generally, these rentals are legal but subject to strict regulations, including fees and zoning restrictions. For instance, in Merriam, owners must obtain a special short-term rental license costing $500, which can be revoked for violations, while new applications must adhere to a spacing requirement of 1,000 feet from other rentals to mitigate overcrowding. Popular property types include urban apartments in cities like Overland Park and suburban homes, reflecting a balance that caters to both tourists visiting local attractions and business travelers attending corporate events. The market benefits from Johnson County's proximity to Kansas City, often drawing visitors year-round, though the strongest demand aligns with holiday seasons and local events. The main authority governing short-term rental regulations is the individual city governments, such as the City of Merriam and the City of Shawnee, which outline their specific rules and licensing procedures on their official websites. For more information, visit the Johnson County official government site at.