Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Ocean Springs, MS

Airbnb listings are allowed in Ocean Springs, MS, but with restrictions. STRs are divided into Residential and Commercial types across three specific zones (City-wide, Density, and Downtown Overlay). Residential STRs are capped at 115 total permits city-wide, while commercial STRs have no cap; permits must be displayed on-site and renewed annually before expiration. 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.

STRs are divided into Residential and Commercial types across three specific zones (City-wide, Density, and Downtown Overlay). Residential STRs are capped at 115 total permits city-wide, while commercial STRs have no cap; permits must be displayed on-site and renewed annually before expiration.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Ocean Springs. Submit an application with a $501.00 fee and required attachments to the Planning Department; schedule a safety inspection (M-F at 10:00 AM). New residential permits then require Planning Commission and Board of Aldermen approval, including neighbor notification and a public hearing.

Submit an application with a $501.00 fee and required attachments to the Planning Department; schedule a safety inspection (M-F at 10:00 AM). New residential permits then require Planning Commission and Board of Aldermen approval, including neighbor notification and a public hearing.

Vrbo is permitted in Ocean Springs, MS 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.