Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Providence, RI

Airbnb listings are allowed in Providence, RI, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (STRs) are defined as stays of fewer than 28 consecutive days. Owner-occupied STRs are permitted in R-1, R-1A, R-3, and R-4 zones, as well as other residential-allowed zones; entire-dwelling STRs require a Temporary Use Permit, while private bedroom rentals where the owner resides do not. All STRs must maintain basic safety measures, including visible exit diagrams and marked fire extinguishers. 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 (STRs) are defined as stays of fewer than 28 consecutive days. Owner-occupied STRs are permitted in R-1, R-1A, R-3, and R-4 zones, as well as other residential-allowed zones; entire-dwelling STRs require a Temporary Use Permit, while private bedroom rentals where the owner resides do not. All STRs must maintain basic safety measures, including visible exit diagrams and marked fire extinguishers.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Providence. 1) Apply for a Temporary Use Permit through the City of Providence Department of Inspection and Standards (required for entire dwelling units; must be renewed annually). 2) Register the property at the state level via the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation's online portal. 3) Ensure the unit has visible exit diagrams and marked fire extinguishers.

1) Apply for a Temporary Use Permit through the City of Providence Department of Inspection and Standards (required for entire dwelling units; must be renewed annually). 2) Register the property at the state level via the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation's online portal. 3) Ensure the unit has visible exit diagrams and marked fire extinguishers.

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