Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Franklin, MA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Franklin, MA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are restricted to specific zoning districts and generally require a special permit from the Planning Board or Board of Appeals. They are categorized under lodging uses such as 'Tourist home' or 'Bed-and-breakfast,' and any use not explicitly permitted in a district is deemed prohibited. 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.

Short-term rentals are restricted to specific zoning districts and generally require a special permit from the Planning Board or Board of Appeals. They are categorized under lodging uses such as 'Tourist home' or 'Bed-and-breakfast,' and any use not explicitly permitted in a district is deemed prohibited.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Franklin. 1. Determine the appropriate zoning district and lodging category (e.g., Tourist Home). 2. Submit a Special Permit application to the Planning Board or Board of Appeals. 3. Comply with state-level requirements including Department of Revenue registration and excise tax payments.

1. Determine the appropriate zoning district and lodging category (e.g., Tourist Home). 2. Submit a Special Permit application to the Planning Board or Board of Appeals. 3. Comply with state-level requirements including Department of Revenue registration and excise tax payments.

Vrbo is permitted in Franklin, MA 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Franklin 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.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Franklin. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.