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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Marshall County, AL

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only in residentially zoned districts where commercial lodging is not allowed; they cannot be used for events like weddings or parties. Occupancy is limited to two persons plus two persons per bedroom, off-street parking is required, and no on-premises signage is permitted. Owners must maintain $1 million in liability insurance and provide a 24/7 emergency contact capable of responding on-site within 12 hours.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Obtain a City renting/leasing business license and submit an STR annual permit application with proof of liability insurance ($1M minimum), a floor plan, and proof of neighbor notification. 2) Schedule and pass safety inspections by the City Building Official and Fire Marshal. 3) Pay the $20 annual permit fee and include the permit number in all public advertisements.

Official Resources

Official Marshall County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Marshall County, AL?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Marshall County, AL, but with restrictions. STRs are permitted only in residentially zoned districts where commercial lodging is not allowed; they cannot be used for events like weddings or parties. Occupancy is limited to two persons plus two persons per bedroom, off-street parking is required, and no on-premises signage is permitted. Owners must maintain $1 million in liability insurance and provide a 24/7 emergency contact capable of responding on-site within 12 hours. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Marshall County, AL?
STRs are permitted only in residentially zoned districts where commercial lodging is not allowed; they cannot be used for events like weddings or parties. Occupancy is limited to two persons plus two persons per bedroom, off-street parking is required, and no on-premises signage is permitted. Owners must maintain $1 million in liability insurance and provide a 24/7 emergency contact capable of responding on-site within 12 hours.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Marshall County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Marshall County. 1) Obtain a City renting/leasing business license and submit an STR annual permit application with proof of liability insurance ($1M minimum), a floor plan, and proof of neighbor notification. 2) Schedule and pass safety inspections by the City Building Official and Fire Marshal. 3) Pay the $20 annual permit fee and include the permit number in all public advertisements.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Marshall County?
1) Obtain a City renting/leasing business license and submit an STR annual permit application with proof of liability insurance ($1M minimum), a floor plan, and proof of neighbor notification. 2) Schedule and pass safety inspections by the City Building Official and Fire Marshal. 3) Pay the $20 annual permit fee and include the permit number in all public advertisements.
Is Vrbo legal in Marshall County, AL?
Vrbo is permitted in Marshall County, AL under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Marshall County?
Short-term rental hosts in Marshall County are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Marshall County?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Marshall County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction