Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Putnam County, TN

Airbnb listings are allowed in Putnam County, TN, but with restrictions. In Algood, stays are limited to 7 consecutive days with occupancy capped at 2 adults and 2 children per sleeping room. In Cookeville, rentals must be in approved zones and pass a fire safety inspection. Both cities require proof of liability insurance ($1,000,000) and a local emergency contact. 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.

In Algood, stays are limited to 7 consecutive days with occupancy capped at 2 adults and 2 children per sleeping room. In Cookeville, rentals must be in approved zones and pass a fire safety inspection. Both cities require proof of liability insurance ($1,000,000) and a local emergency contact.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Putnam County. 1. Verify zoning and obtain city/county business licenses. 2. Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection. 3. Submit the STR permit application to the local Codes Department with proof of $1M liability insurance and pay the required fee ($100 in Algood).

1. Verify zoning and obtain city/county business licenses. 2. Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection. 3. Submit the STR permit application to the local Codes Department with proof of $1M liability insurance and pay the required fee ($100 in Algood).

Vrbo is permitted in Putnam County, 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.

Short-term rental hosts in Putnam County 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 Putnam County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.