Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Johnston, RI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Johnston, RI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are permitted provided the operator obtains both a state registration from the DBR and a local license from the Town Clerk. Requirements include mandatory inspections by the Building Official and Fire Department to ensure compliance with RI Building and Fire Codes, and the collection/payment of all applicable state taxes. 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 permitted provided the operator obtains both a state registration from the DBR and a local license from the Town Clerk. Requirements include mandatory inspections by the Building Official and Fire Department to ensure compliance with RI Building and Fire Codes, and the collection/payment of all applicable state taxes.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Johnston. 1. Register with the RI Department of Business Regulation ($25 fee). 2. Submit a local license application to the Johnston Town Clerk via the online licensing portal ($150 fee). 3. Pass inspections by the Building Official and Fire Department to receive certification of compliance with RI Building and Fire Codes. Licenses expire annually on May 31.

1. Register with the RI Department of Business Regulation ($25 fee). 2. Submit a local license application to the Johnston Town Clerk via the online licensing portal ($150 fee). 3. Pass inspections by the Building Official and Fire Department to receive certification of compliance with RI Building and Fire Codes. Licenses expire annually on May 31.

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