From the Wyo Stays team. General guidance — confirm requirements with local fire/building authorities. Not legal advice.
Safety compliance protects your guests, your license, and you from liability. It's also often the part of "no dedicated STR ordinance" that still very much applies. Work through this list on every property.
Detection & alarms
- ☐ Smoke detectors in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level
- ☐ Carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and per code (critical with gas heat, fireplaces, attached garages)
- ☐ All detectors tested and batteries fresh (log it every turnover/season)
Fire response
- ☐ Fire extinguisher(s) — kitchen and each level, current, accessible
- ☐ Guests told where they are (welcome book)
- ☐ Fireplace / wood stove — serviced, screened, clear instructions, ash disposal guidance
Egress & occupancy
- ☐ Safe exit from every sleeping room (windows/doors meet egress)
- ☐ Exits clear and unobstructed
- ☐ Occupancy limit set and enforced (matches beds/septic capacity)
- ☐ Stairs/railings sound; adequate lighting
Other hazards
- ☐ Hot tub rules and safety posted (see Hot Tub Care SOP)
- ☐ Space heaters / supplemental heat safe and guided
- ☐ Electrical: no overloaded circuits; GFCIs in wet areas working
- ☐ Address clearly visible for emergency responders
Documentation (protect yourself)
- ☐ Keep a dated log of detector tests and safety checks — your evidence of diligence
- ☐ Post an emergency plan (see STR Emergency Preparedness Plan)
The stakes: a fire or CO incident is the worst-case scenario, and documented diligence is both prevention and protection. This is not a corner to cut.
→ Unlock the printable safety checklist, or → get a free evaluation — safety compliance is part of how we onboard and manage.