Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Gloucester, MA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-Term Rentals (30 days or less) are governed by City Ordinance Section 5-63 and Board of Health regulations. The city distinguishes between Primary, Shared, and Non-Primary units, requiring proof of ownership for all and proof of primary residency for Primary/Shared units. Operators must maintain an on-site information binder, comply with safety standards (alarms, egress), and adhere to state sanitary codes and local wastewater rules.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply online via Gloucester’s OpenGov permitting portal for a Short-Term Rental Permit. 2) Submit required documentation including proof of ownership and, if applicable, proof of primary residency. 3) Pay the annual fee (Primary $150, Shared $100, Non-Primary $300) and ensure all municipal bills (water, sewer, tax) are paid to receive the annual permit.

Official Resources

Official Gloucester STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Gloucester, MA?
Short-Term Rentals (30 days or less) are governed by City Ordinance Section 5-63 and Board of Health regulations. The city distinguishes between Primary, Shared, and Non-Primary units, requiring proof of ownership for all and proof of primary residency for Primary/Shared units. Operators must maintain an on-site information binder, comply with safety standards (alarms, egress), and adhere to state sanitary codes and local wastewater rules.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Gloucester?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Gloucester. 1) Apply online via Gloucester’s OpenGov permitting portal for a Short-Term Rental Permit. 2) Submit required documentation including proof of ownership and, if applicable, proof of primary residency. 3) Pay the annual fee (Primary $150, Shared $100, Non-Primary $300) and ensure all municipal bills (water, sewer, tax) are paid to receive the annual permit.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Gloucester?
1) Apply online via Gloucester’s OpenGov permitting portal for a Short-Term Rental Permit. 2) Submit required documentation including proof of ownership and, if applicable, proof of primary residency. 3) Pay the annual fee (Primary $150, Shared $100, Non-Primary $300) and ensure all municipal bills (water, sewer, tax) are paid to receive the annual permit.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Gloucester, MA?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

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