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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Newport, RI

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (Transient Guest Facilities) are restricted in residential zones (R3-R160) to primary residences only; owner-occupied properties may rent up to 2 rooms to a maximum of four people. Rentals are permitted in General Business, Waterfront Business, and Commercial Industrial zones, while Limited Business zones require a special use permit. Requirements include off-street parking (typically 1 space per bedroom) and fire-protection measures for units hosting more than 5 individuals.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island DBR via the state eLicensing portal. 2. Submit a City Transient Guest Facility application through the Newport STR portal (newportri.munirevs.com), uploading a floor plan and dimensional parking plan. 3. Pay the $15 filing fee for review by Zoning, Building, Collections, and Fire departments; upon approval, pay the annual registration fee ($500 for home-occupation or $1,000 for non-home-occupation).

Regulatory Updates — Newport

Proposed and recent legislation

PassedSeptember 2024

Newport STR Licensing Ordinance Amendment

City tightened licensing requirements; all STR operators must pass fire/safety inspection, display license number in all listings, and carry $1 million liability insurance. Annual license fee $250–500 based on bedrooms.

ProposedOctober 2025

Newport Non-Owner-Occupied STR Cap Proposal

City Council considering limiting non-owner-occupied STRs to approximately 1% of housing units per neighborhood — roughly 50 total licenses citywide — with a waitlist system for new applicants.

Under ReviewNovember 2025

Rhode Island STR Transparency Act

State legislation requiring online platforms to share host data with municipalities; expected to strengthen local enforcement and tax compliance efforts statewide.

Official Resources

Official Newport STR regulation source

Local Resources & Advocacy

Newport Lodging Owners AssociationLocal

Local organization representing Newport STR and lodging operators; monitors City Council proceedings and advocates for proportionate regulation.

Rhode Island Hospitality AssociationStatewide

Statewide hospitality industry group that tracks STR legislation and provides guidance for Rhode Island operators.

Vacation Rental Management AssociationNational

National trade association offering education, advocacy, and resources for professional vacation rental managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Newport, RI?
Short-term rentals (Transient Guest Facilities) are restricted in residential zones (R3-R160) to primary residences only; owner-occupied properties may rent up to 2 rooms to a maximum of four people. Rentals are permitted in General Business, Waterfront Business, and Commercial Industrial zones, while Limited Business zones require a special use permit. Requirements include off-street parking (typically 1 space per bedroom) and fire-protection measures for units hosting more than 5 individuals.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Newport?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Newport. 1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island DBR via the state eLicensing portal. 2. Submit a City Transient Guest Facility application through the Newport STR portal (newportri.munirevs.com), uploading a floor plan and dimensional parking plan. 3. Pay the $15 filing fee for review by Zoning, Building, Collections, and Fire departments; upon approval, pay the annual registration fee ($500 for home-occupation or $1,000 for non-home-occupation).
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Newport?
1. Register the unit with the State of Rhode Island DBR via the state eLicensing portal. 2. Submit a City Transient Guest Facility application through the Newport STR portal (newportri.munirevs.com), uploading a floor plan and dimensional parking plan. 3. Pay the $15 filing fee for review by Zoning, Building, Collections, and Fire departments; upon approval, pay the annual registration fee ($500 for home-occupation or $1,000 for non-home-occupation).
What does Newport's STR licensing require?
An annual Newport STR license ($250–500 depending on bedrooms), passed fire safety inspection, $1 million liability insurance certificate, and posting of license number on all platforms. Unlicensed operators face fines up to $500/day.
Is there a cap on STRs in Newport?
Not yet, but a 2025 proposal would cap non-owner-occupied STRs at approximately 50 licenses citywide. Operators should monitor Newport City Council proceedings closely — a decision could come in 2026.
What lodging taxes apply to Newport STRs?
Rhode Island state hotel tax (6%), Newport local hotel tax (5%), and applicable state sales tax. Total lodging tax burden is approximately 13%. Register with the Rhode Island Division of Taxation.
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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