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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Narragansett, RI

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (STRs) are restricted to stays of 7 to 29 consecutive nights; rentals under 7 nights are prohibited. Occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom, and one on-site parking space must be provided per bedroom (minimum of two). The town enforces a declining annual permit cap (1,100 in 2024/25, 1,000 in 2025/26, and 900 in 2026/27) and prohibits events like weddings or corporate parties.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island (DBR). 2. Submit an online application to the Narragansett Building Official with proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance and pay the required fees ($425 total for residents, $850 for non-residents). 3. Pass required inspections by both the Building Official and the Fire Marshal. Permits expire annually on August 31st and do not automatically renew.

Official Resources

Official Narragansett STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Narragansett, RI?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Narragansett, RI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (STRs) are restricted to stays of 7 to 29 consecutive nights; rentals under 7 nights are prohibited. Occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom, and one on-site parking space must be provided per bedroom (minimum of two). The town enforces a declining annual permit cap (1,100 in 2024/25, 1,000 in 2025/26, and 900 in 2026/27) and prohibits events like weddings or corporate parties. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Narragansett, RI?
Short-term rentals (STRs) are restricted to stays of 7 to 29 consecutive nights; rentals under 7 nights are prohibited. Occupancy is limited to two persons per bedroom, and one on-site parking space must be provided per bedroom (minimum of two). The town enforces a declining annual permit cap (1,100 in 2024/25, 1,000 in 2025/26, and 900 in 2026/27) and prohibits events like weddings or corporate parties.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Narragansett?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Narragansett. 1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island (DBR). 2. Submit an online application to the Narragansett Building Official with proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance and pay the required fees ($425 total for residents, $850 for non-residents). 3. Pass required inspections by both the Building Official and the Fire Marshal. Permits expire annually on August 31st and do not automatically renew.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Narragansett?
1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island (DBR). 2. Submit an online application to the Narragansett Building Official with proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance and pay the required fees ($425 total for residents, $850 for non-residents). 3. Pass required inspections by both the Building Official and the Fire Marshal. Permits expire annually on August 31st and do not automatically renew.
Is Vrbo legal in Narragansett, RI?
Vrbo is permitted in Narragansett, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Narragansett?
Short-term rental hosts in Narragansett 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Narragansett?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Narragansett. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction