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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Hattiesburg, MS

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are permitted only under City Ordinance No. 3376 with a citywide cap equal to 2.5% of total residential structures (waiting list maintained if cap reached). Applicants must identify a local property manager (must reside in Forrest or Lamar County) available 24/7, comply with zoning/building codes and HOA covenants, post unit rules and local contact information, and meet occupancy rules (generally 2 persons per sleeping room plus 4 per dwelling; +6 additional for homes >3,250 sq ft). Units must pass fire/health/code inspections and follow parking, trash, and noise requirements.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Complete and submit the City Short-Term Rental Application to the City Tax Department/Planning Division with required documents (proof of liability insurance covering STR use, mortgage/deed showing STRs allowed, rental agreement, parking and trash plans, sales tax registration) and pay application and licensing fees (total new application listed as $250). 2) Undergo required inspections (fire, building/occupancy determination) and staff review (zoning/CZC). 3) If approved, receive a 1-year permit; renew annually via City Tax Department.

Official Resources

Official Hattiesburg STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Hattiesburg, MS?
Short-term rentals are permitted only under City Ordinance No. 3376 with a citywide cap equal to 2.5% of total residential structures (waiting list maintained if cap reached). Applicants must identify a local property manager (must reside in Forrest or Lamar County) available 24/7, comply with zoning/building codes and HOA covenants, post unit rules and local contact information, and meet occupancy rules (generally 2 persons per sleeping room plus 4 per dwelling; +6 additional for homes >3,250 sq ft). Units must pass fire/health/code inspections and follow parking, trash, and noise requirements.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Hattiesburg?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Hattiesburg. 1) Complete and submit the City Short-Term Rental Application to the City Tax Department/Planning Division with required documents (proof of liability insurance covering STR use, mortgage/deed showing STRs allowed, rental agreement, parking and trash plans, sales tax registration) and pay application and licensing fees (total new application listed as $250). 2) Undergo required inspections (fire, building/occupancy determination) and staff review (zoning/CZC). 3) If approved, receive a 1-year permit; renew annually via City Tax Department.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Hattiesburg?
1) Complete and submit the City Short-Term Rental Application to the City Tax Department/Planning Division with required documents (proof of liability insurance covering STR use, mortgage/deed showing STRs allowed, rental agreement, parking and trash plans, sales tax registration) and pay application and licensing fees (total new application listed as $250). 2) Undergo required inspections (fire, building/occupancy determination) and staff review (zoning/CZC). 3) If approved, receive a 1-year permit; renew annually via City Tax Department.
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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