Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Dartmouth, MA

Short-term lodging (lodging houses/bed-and-breakfasts) is restricted to owner-occupied dwellings and requires a Planning Board Special Permit. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and associated single-family residences are strictly prohibited from being used for short-term rentals. Requirements include adequate off-street parking, maintaining a single-family appearance, and Board of Health confirmation for water and septic capacity.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Dartmouth. (1) Submit a Special Permit application through the Town's online permitting portal and provide physical copies of plans and a list of 'Parties in Interest' to the Planning Department. (2) Pay the $250 filing fee plus advertising/notification costs (and a potential $1,000 consultant fee deposit if required). (3) Complete interdepartmental reviews, including Board of Health confirmation for water/septic, and attend a public hearing for Planning Board approval.

(1) Submit a Special Permit application through the Town's online permitting portal and provide physical copies of plans and a list of 'Parties in Interest' to the Planning Department. (2) Pay the $250 filing fee plus advertising/notification costs (and a potential $1,000 consultant fee deposit if required). (3) Complete interdepartmental reviews, including Board of Health confirmation for water/septic, and attend a public hearing for Planning Board approval.