How Edina’s Rental Licensing Works for Single‑Family Homes

Thinking about renting out your single-family home in Edina or buying an investment property? Edina has a clear rental licensing program that sets expectations for owners and protects residents. When you know the rules, you can plan your timeline, budget, and maintenance with confidence. This guide walks you through who needs a license, what it costs, how to apply, inspections, and special rules so you can move forward smoothly. Let’s dive in.

Who needs a license

If a dwelling in Edina is not owner-occupied, it must be licensed annually. This applies to single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. You apply with the City’s Public Health Division and the license becomes effective after approval. Learn more on the City’s Rental Housing page at the City of Edina website: rental licensing overview and FAQs.

Cost and renewal

The annual license fee for a non-owner-occupied single-family home is $200 per unit. Fees are set by the city and can change, so confirm the current amount when you apply. Licenses renew annually, and inspections run on a multi-year cycle tied to your property type. Details are available on the City’s rental housing program page.

Apply online

You submit your application through the City’s online portal: Application for Residential Rental License.

What you’ll need

• Property address and owner contact information.
• Business entity details if applicable.
• Operator or manager contact within 50 miles if you live more than 50 miles away.
• Payment after the city reviews your application.

Timeline basics

• The license is effective on the date it is applied for and approved.
• Edina schedules inspections in advance and often completes an initial inspection within the first year. See timing guidance on the rental housing page.

Inspection schedule

Single-family rentals in Edina are inspected every other year. The city schedules visits with notice, and reinspections may occur if corrections are required. Apartment buildings follow a different schedule, but single-family homes, townhomes, and condos share the every-other-year timeline. You can review the program details on the City’s rental housing page.

Inspection checklist

Edina uses the International Property Maintenance Code to set minimum safety and habitability standards. Before your inspection, check these common items:

• Working smoke detectors with fresh batteries and required carbon monoxide alarms.
• Clear egress routes with no blocked windows or doors, plus safe handrails and guardrails.
• Functional heating and plumbing without leaks or hazards.
• Safe electrical systems, including GFCI protection in kitchens and bathrooms.
• No evidence of rodents or pests, and clean, sanitary conditions.
• Safe decks and grill setups.

Short-term rental rules

Edina does not allow short-term vacation rentals. The minimum rental period is 30 consecutive days for a permitted rental. See the city’s policy in the Better Together Edina rental housing FAQ.

Owner-occupied room rentals

If you live in the home and rent out a room, a separate rental license is generally not required. Because details can vary, confirm your specific situation with the City. The city provides guidance in the rental housing FAQ.

Buying or selling a rental

If you are selling a rented single-family home, verify the property’s current license status and whether any correction orders are outstanding. If the buyer will occupy the home, a rental license is not required once it becomes owner-occupied. If you are purchasing as an investor, budget the annual fee, plan for the inspection cycle, and be ready to correct any items identified during inspection. Absentee owners must designate a local operator or manager within 50 miles on the application form.

Enforcement basics

Edina enforces rental standards through inspections, correction orders, and licensing actions. Specific penalty amounts are set by city code and schedules. Minnesota landlord-tenant statutes provide additional legal context for repairs and remedies. For statutory background, review Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B, and contact the City for enforcement questions.

Landlord quick checklist

• Confirm whether your property requires a license.
• Apply online and plan for the $200 annual fee.
• Prepare for an initial inspection, then inspections every other year.
• Test smoke and CO alarms, check egress, and address safety items.
• If you live more than 50 miles away, list a local operator or manager.
• Do not offer stays under 30 days in Edina.

Helpful contacts and resources

• City of Edina Rental Housing program overview and FAQs: Rental Housing
• Apply online: Application for Residential Rental License
• Policy background and FAQs: Better Together Edina rental housing FAQ
• Minnesota statutes on repairs and remedies: Chapter 504B
• Edina Public Health Division, Fire Station 1, 6250 Tracy Ave. Phone: 952-826-0370
• Licensing Specialist for rental licensing questions: Jasmine Robles, 952-826-1656

How we can help

Whether you are converting a home to a rental, preparing a rented property for market, or buying an investment home, you deserve calm, clear guidance. Our team pairs local insight with a process-driven approach, including staging guidance and Compass Concierge, to help you time your move and present your property at its best. If you are weighing options in Edina, let’s talk about next steps, timelines, and market strategy. Connect with John Brekken for thoughtful, local support.

FAQs

How much does an Edina single-family rental license cost?

• The annual fee is $200 per single unit in Edina. Confirm current fees on the City’s Rental Housing page.

How often will my Edina rental be inspected?

• Single-family rentals are inspected every other year, with an initial inspection often scheduled in the first year after licensing.

Can I do Airbnb or other short stays in Edina?

• No. Edina does not allow short-term rentals. The minimum rental term is 30 consecutive days per the city’s FAQ.

Do I need a license if I rent a room in my owner-occupied home?

• Generally no. If you still live in the dwelling and rent a room, a separate license is typically not required. Confirm your details with the City’s FAQ.

How do I apply for an Edina rental license?

• Apply online through the City’s portal using the Application for Residential Rental License.