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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Morristown, TN

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

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are restricted to specific zones and require 'Use on Review' approval for owner-occupied units (OOSTRU). Occupancy is limited to twice the number of bedrooms plus four, with a maximum of three bedrooms for OOSTRUs. Operators must provide paved on-premise parking and designate a local contact person available 24/7 who can respond within 45 minutes.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Apply for an OOSTRU permit through the City Planning Department. 2. For nonconforming units, provide documentation of paying at least six months of sales taxes in the prior 12-month period. 3. Ensure the property meets all safety requirements (smoke alarms, CO detectors, fire extinguishers) and parking standards before operation.

Official Resources

Official Morristown STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Morristown, TN?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Morristown, TN, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are restricted to specific zones and require 'Use on Review' approval for owner-occupied units (OOSTRU). Occupancy is limited to twice the number of bedrooms plus four, with a maximum of three bedrooms for OOSTRUs. Operators must provide paved on-premise parking and designate a local contact person available 24/7 who can respond within 45 minutes. 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 Morristown, TN?
Short-term rentals are restricted to specific zones and require 'Use on Review' approval for owner-occupied units (OOSTRU). Occupancy is limited to twice the number of bedrooms plus four, with a maximum of three bedrooms for OOSTRUs. Operators must provide paved on-premise parking and designate a local contact person available 24/7 who can respond within 45 minutes.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Morristown?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Morristown. 1. Apply for an OOSTRU permit through the City Planning Department. 2. For nonconforming units, provide documentation of paying at least six months of sales taxes in the prior 12-month period. 3. Ensure the property meets all safety requirements (smoke alarms, CO detectors, fire extinguishers) and parking standards before operation.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Morristown?
1. Apply for an OOSTRU permit through the City Planning Department. 2. For nonconforming units, provide documentation of paying at least six months of sales taxes in the prior 12-month period. 3. Ensure the property meets all safety requirements (smoke alarms, CO detectors, fire extinguishers) and parking standards before operation.
Is Vrbo legal in Morristown, TN?
Vrbo is permitted in Morristown, 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 Morristown?
Short-term rental hosts in Morristown 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 Morristown?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Morristown. 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