Short-Term Rental Rules in Nashville, TN (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term rentals are allowed in Nashville with a permit. Hosts need to obtain a Short Term Rental Property (STRP) permit and must meet specific requirements for operation and restrictions in use [1][2].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Nashville. The property owner must obtain an STRP permit from the Department of Codes and Building Safety [1][2]. A permit must prominently display the permit number in all advertisements, and without a permit, it is illegal to operate a short-term rental [1][4]. The permit is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually [3]. Only one permit may be issued per lot in single-family and two-family zoning districts [1].
Taxes
Short-term rental operators must collect and remit hotel occupancy and sales taxes [3]. Taxes can be collected by a third party as long as they indicate the owner and property address clearly with the remittance [3]. Proof of payment for all applicable taxes is required for permit renewals [4].
Limits and restrictions
The property must be owner-occupied for an owner-occupied STRP permit, and only natural persons (not LLCs or partnerships) can apply for these permits [1][2]. There is a maximum of four sleeping rooms per STRP permit, and the property must comply with specific zoning and building codes [1][2]. HOA restrictions may also apply, and notarized confirmation of compliance must be provided [4]. Proof of adjacent neighbors’ notification is required [2][4].
Penalties
Operating without a permit is subject to enforcement actions, citations, and a mandatory one-year waiting period before applying for a STRP permit [3]. The permit is non-transferable and cannot be assigned to another person or property [3].
How to apply
To apply for a permit, applicants must email required documents to the STRP application address or deliver them in person [3][4]. Documents include a floor plan, proof of insurance, a notarized affidavit, and proof of tax payment [2][4]. The application process must be completed within 90 calendar days [1]. A $313 permit fee is required, payable by exact cash, check, or credit card [3][4].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit Requirement | Required for all STRP activities [1] |
| Permit Validity | 12 months, renewable annually [3] |
| Permit Fee | $313, payable in full [3] |
| Tax Collection | Required for hotel occupancy and sales [3] |
| Property Limitations | Maximum of four bedrooms, owner-occupied stipulation [1][2] |
| Penalties | Enforcement actions for unpermitted operations [3] |
FAQ
Can I transfer my short-term rental permit to a new owner?
No, the Short Term Rental Property permit is non-transferable [3].
How do I notify neighbors about my short-term rental application?
Notification can be done in-person or through mailed letters, requiring signatures or certified mail forms as proof [3][4].
What insurance is required for a short-term rental permit?
Proof of homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance with a minimum limit of $1 million per occurrence is required [2][4].
Running a rental in Nashville
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Chapter 6.28 - HOTELS AND ROOMINGHOUSES | Code of Ordinances | Metro Government of Nashville and Davidson Coun (official)
- Apply for Short Term Rental Property Permit | Nashville.gov (official)
- Short Term Rental Property Frequently Asked Questions | Nashville.gov (official)
- Metro Nashville Codes and Building Safety Short Term Rental Permit Application Checklist (official)
Last checked: October 6, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.