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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Bristol County, MA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Operators must be the legal owner and primary resident for at least 9 months per year. Occupancy is limited to 8 guests or 2 per bedroom (whichever is fewer), and rentals are limited to one party at a time for no more than 30 consecutive days. A local contact must be available to respond in person within 2 hours.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Register the property with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue via MassTaxConnect. 2. Apply with the local Inspectional Services Division, providing proof of ownership (deed), primary residence (ID and utility bill), and a Fire Dept. Certificate of Compliance. 3. Pay the annual filing fee ($50 in Fall River) and notify all abutters within 30 days of registration.

Official Resources

Official Bristol County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bristol County, MA?
Operators must be the legal owner and primary resident for at least 9 months per year. Occupancy is limited to 8 guests or 2 per bedroom (whichever is fewer), and rentals are limited to one party at a time for no more than 30 consecutive days. A local contact must be available to respond in person within 2 hours.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Bristol County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Bristol County. 1. Register the property with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue via MassTaxConnect. 2. Apply with the local Inspectional Services Division, providing proof of ownership (deed), primary residence (ID and utility bill), and a Fire Dept. Certificate of Compliance. 3. Pay the annual filing fee ($50 in Fall River) and notify all abutters within 30 days of registration.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Bristol County?
1. Register the property with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue via MassTaxConnect. 2. Apply with the local Inspectional Services Division, providing proof of ownership (deed), primary residence (ID and utility bill), and a Fire Dept. Certificate of Compliance. 3. Pay the annual filing fee ($50 in Fall River) and notify all abutters within 30 days of registration.

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: March 2026 · Suggest a correction