Short Term Rental Guidelines for the City of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Short Term Rental Guidelines for the City of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

When deciding whether to let Cohost manage your short-term rental, it is important for you to understand the laws in your city. As a short-term rental property management company we do not provide legal advice, but we want to give you some useful links that may help you better understand laws and regulations in the city of Cape Girardeau. This list is not exhaustive, but it should give you a good start in understanding your local laws. To find out relevant information, it is always good practice to check with your county or city government website. You can find out short-term rental information here.

You can call 339-6327 or email inspections@cityofcape.org with any questions.

There are some general requirements when operating a Short Term Rental in the city of Cape Girardeau.

The dwelling is to be safe, clean, sanitary, fit for human occupancy and comply with all applicable legal requirements of the state and the city, including the following requirements:
  1. Must have proper functioning smoke alarm installed in each bedroom, in common hallways outside of bedrooms, and on each floor level including the basement. 
  2. Must exhibit no evidence of pest infestation
  3. All windows and doors must be maintained in good condition and function properly
  4. Kitchen faucet, sink, and drains must be maintained in good condition and function properly
  5. Kitchen area must have cabinets and/or shelves for storage
  6. Must have adequate space and hookups for stove and refrigerator
  7. Bathroom faucet, lavatory, and drains must be maintained in good condition to function properly
  8. Bathtub/shower faucet and drains must be maintained in good condition and function properly
  9. Toilet must be securely fastened to floor, maintained in good condition and function properly
  10. Plumbing system must be maintained in good condition and function properly.
  11. Electrical service panel, switch, receptacle, and junction box covers must be in place.
  12. There can be no exposed electrical wiring connections.
  13. There must be exterior lighting fixtures installed at entrances and exits.
  14. Electrical system must be safe, compliant, and function properly.
  15. There must be a securely fastened handrail installed on steps with 4 or more risers.
  16. There must be securely fastened guards installed on landings more than 30 inches high.
  17. With limited exceptions, bedrooms must have approved emergency egress doors or windows leading directly to the outside with a minimum clear opening of 24 inches high and 30 inches wide.
  18. Exhaust fans and dryers must be ventilated to the outside.
  19. Furnished appliances must function properly.
  20. There must be an approved and properly functioning heating system.
  21. Rental unit must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.
  22. Interior ceilings, walls, floors, and stairs must be maintained in good condition.
  23. Exterior roof, walls, foundation, decks, porches, and steps must be maintained in good condition.
  24. Rental unit must be structurally sound and safe to occupy.