Comparent
RestrictedCity

Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Cookeville, TN

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only in specified zoning districts (RM8, RM14, PRD, CBD, CN, CL, CG, MS, and UNV). Transient occupancy is defined as stays of less than 30 continuous days; operators must maintain a current fire inspection, a current City of Cookeville business license (and county business license), and liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000). Annual permit required with renewal.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Confirm property is in an allowed zone and complete the City of Cookeville STRP Permit application (fillable PDF) and bring it to Cookeville City Hall; 2) Provide required attachments: current-year fire inspection, current City business license (and county business license), and proof of liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000); 3) Pay permit fee (New $100; Annual Renewal $50) and submit to the Codes Department for approval; permit renews annually.

Official Resources

Official Cookeville STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Cookeville, TN?
STRs are permitted only in specified zoning districts (RM8, RM14, PRD, CBD, CN, CL, CG, MS, and UNV). Transient occupancy is defined as stays of less than 30 continuous days; operators must maintain a current fire inspection, a current City of Cookeville business license (and county business license), and liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000). Annual permit required with renewal.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Cookeville?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Cookeville. 1) Confirm property is in an allowed zone and complete the City of Cookeville STRP Permit application (fillable PDF) and bring it to Cookeville City Hall; 2) Provide required attachments: current-year fire inspection, current City business license (and county business license), and proof of liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000); 3) Pay permit fee (New $100; Annual Renewal $50) and submit to the Codes Department for approval; permit renews annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Cookeville?
1) Confirm property is in an allowed zone and complete the City of Cookeville STRP Permit application (fillable PDF) and bring it to Cookeville City Hall; 2) Provide required attachments: current-year fire inspection, current City business license (and county business license), and proof of liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000); 3) Pay permit fee (New $100; Annual Renewal $50) and submit to the Codes Department for approval; permit renews annually.
Comparent

Looking for property managers in Cookeville, TN?

Compare top-rated short-term rental managers on Comparent — read reviews, see pricing, and find the right fit.

View Property Managers

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