Council advances rental-licensing overhaul to final reading, approves second reading

The Inver Grove Heights City Council approved the second reading of a revised rental-licensing ordinance that city staff said is intended to streamline the rental-license application and enforcement process.

Director Zemer told the council the update (Chapter 4, business regulation) would convert the program to an annual license (April 1–March 31) with an application deadline of Jan. 31, allow administrative approval or denial of licenses (with an appeal to the council), reduce unnecessary application requirements, and require property managers to be located within 75 miles of the city to ensure responsiveness for local issues. Zemer said suspensions and revocations would remain decisions of the council.

Councilors asked whether the ordinance alters the municipality's definition of "family." City Attorney Nason clarified the proposed ordinance maintains the existing definition: "a family is defined as an individual or 2 or more persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption, or a group of not more than 4 persons not so related." Nason said that scenario means two separate family units totaling five people would not meet the current definition.

Council discussion noted broader policy questions such as geographic limitations on rentals would be part of a later Phase 2 conversation; staff said those items would be brought forward early next year. After questions and the reading, a council member moved to approve the second reading and the council passed the motion by voice vote. The final (third) reading and adoption is scheduled for Nov. 10.