Perry County officials are alerting all lodging providers to an important change arriving next month: beginning Dec. 1, all lodging facilities in the county will be required to collect and remit a 6 percent tourism tax. The update follows the passage of Missouri House Bill 199, signed into law on Aug. 28.
The new requirement applies broadly across the local lodging landscape, including:
■ Hotels and motels
■ Campground cabins
■ Short-term rentals, whether listed on Airbnb, VRBO and similar platforms or operating independently
Beginning on the first of December, lodging operators must add the 6 percent tourism tax to all guest lodging charges. The collected tax is to be remitted monthly to the Perry County Treasurer’s Office, using the county’s designated submission form. Forms will be mailed to known lodging providers and will also be available online at www.perrycountymo.us.
County officials emphasize that all short-term rental operators are responsible for compliance, even if they do not receive a mailed request or form.
Funds generated from the tourism tax are earmarked for tourism projects throughout Perry County. The goal, county leaders say, is to enhance visitor experiences, expand promotional efforts, and strengthen the local economy — a benefit that reaches lodging providers and nearby businesses alike.
“We value the important role lodging establishments play in welcoming visitors to Perry County,” said Trish Erzfeld, director of Heritage Tourism. “Whereas this additional tax will strengthen our tourism efforts and help us continue to grow as a premier destination, it also makes the tax fair for all those with lodging establishments in Perry County. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and partnership as we implement this change.”
Lodging providers are encouraged to review booking systems, point-of-sale software, and online listings to ensure the tax can be correctly applied beginning Dec. 1.
Perry County officials also note that they are exploring ways to simplify the monthly tax-submission process and will provide updates as they become available.
Lodging operators with questions may contact Trish Erzfeld at 573-517-2069
