I am not sure if anyone has posted about this on here yet but for anyone who owns or is considering buying a short-term rental in the Glenn/Fennville area of Southwest Michigan, Ganges Township has now adopted Ordinance No. 70, which takes effect November 20, 2026.

I've been following this closely as we operate properties in the area, and there are some pretty significant changes. Hopefully this is useful information to others who operate in the area!

Here are the main takeaways:

• 175-license cap. The township is limiting the number of STR licenses to 175, with applications generally handled in the order they're completed and accepted.

• No guaranteed grandfathering. This is probably the biggest concern for existing owners. The ordinance doesn't explicitly guarantee a license just because you've already been operating.

• Annual registration and inspections. Owners will need to provide documentation, including floor plans, parking information, insurance, and septic records.

• Occupancy restrictions. Generally two guests per bedroom, plus two per qualifying finished level, with an overall maximum of 12.

• Two-night minimum. One-night rentals will no longer be permitted.

• Local representation. Owners living outside the area will need a designated local contact who can respond to issues promptly.

• Property restrictions. Certain property types, including attached condos and duplexes, won't qualify.

My biggest concern is the license cap and what it means for people who purchased properties and invested considerable money when STRs were permitted without this licensing system. For anyone looking to invest in the area, I'd be very cautious about purchasing based on historical Airbnb revenue without first confirming licensing eligibility and availability. For existing owners, I'd recommend getting your paperwork together now rather than waiting until applications open!!