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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Memphis, TN

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

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts. Requirements include a minimum 24-hour stay, a designated local agent (21+ years old) reachable 24/7 who can respond within 2 hours, and mandatory posting of the permit number in all advertisements.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit an annual application form under oath to the City of Memphis Permit Office. 2. Provide required documentation including proof of ownership, a sworn Code Compliance Verification Form, and proof of liability insurance ($1,000,000 minimum). 3. Pay the $75.00 non-refundable application fee; permits must be renewed annually.

Official Resources

Official Memphis STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Memphis, TN?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Memphis, TN, but with restrictions. STRs are permitted as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts. Requirements include a minimum 24-hour stay, a designated local agent (21+ years old) reachable 24/7 who can respond within 2 hours, and mandatory posting of the permit number in all advertisements. 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 Memphis, TN?
STRs are permitted as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts. Requirements include a minimum 24-hour stay, a designated local agent (21+ years old) reachable 24/7 who can respond within 2 hours, and mandatory posting of the permit number in all advertisements.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Memphis?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Memphis. 1. Submit an annual application form under oath to the City of Memphis Permit Office. 2. Provide required documentation including proof of ownership, a sworn Code Compliance Verification Form, and proof of liability insurance ($1,000,000 minimum). 3. Pay the $75.00 non-refundable application fee; permits must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Memphis?
1. Submit an annual application form under oath to the City of Memphis Permit Office. 2. Provide required documentation including proof of ownership, a sworn Code Compliance Verification Form, and proof of liability insurance ($1,000,000 minimum). 3. Pay the $75.00 non-refundable application fee; permits must be renewed annually.
Is Vrbo legal in Memphis, TN?
Vrbo is permitted in Memphis, TN 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 Memphis?
Short-term rental hosts in Memphis 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 Memphis?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Memphis. 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