Asheville vs Detroit
North Carolina Restricted | Michigan Legal but Limited
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Asheville, North Carolina | Detroit, Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Restricted | Legal but Limited |
| Permit Fee | $200 homestay permit fee | $500 annual license fee |
| Tax Rate | ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy) | 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | 90 days/year |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $500/day for violations | Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation |
| Verdict | Detroit has more favorable STR regulations overall. | |
Asheville, North Carolina
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $200 homestay permit fee
Tax Rate ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for violations
Detroit, Michigan
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $500 annual license fee
Tax Rate 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined)
Day Limit 90 days/year
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation
Detroit has more favorable STR regulations overall.
Asheville Overview
Whole-dwelling STRs banned in most zones since 2018; only allowed in resort zoning districts. Owner-occupied homestays (max 2 guest rooms, host must live on-site) are permitted in residential zones with a permit.
Full Asheville guide →Detroit Overview
90-day annual rental cap; max 10 guests at any time; principal residence requirement. Liability insurance required and properties must pass safety inspection.
Full Detroit guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Asheville or Detroit?
Asheville is classified as "Restricted" while Detroit is "Legal but Limited." Asheville's permit fee is $200 homestay permit fee compared to $500 annual license fee in Detroit.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Asheville or Detroit?
Asheville charges ~16.75% combined (4.75% state sales + 6% county occupancy + 6% city occupancy), while Detroit charges 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Asheville: $500/day for violations. Detroit: Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation.