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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Shelby County, TN

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are permitted as accessory uses in residential zones but require a permit. Operators must maintain $1,000,000 in liability insurance, provide a responsible party within 50 miles, and comply with safety standards including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Submit a completed Short Term Rental Property Permit Application to the Shelby County Clerk’s Office with a $100 fee ($50 for renewals). 2. Provide required documentation including a scaled site plan, proof of ownership, and proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance. 3. Complete a final inspection by Memphis/Shelby County Code Enforcement to verify compliance with safety codes.

Official Resources

Official Shelby County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Shelby County, TN?
Short-term rentals are permitted as accessory uses in residential zones but require a permit. Operators must maintain $1,000,000 in liability insurance, provide a responsible party within 50 miles, and comply with safety standards including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Shelby County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Shelby County. 1. Submit a completed Short Term Rental Property Permit Application to the Shelby County Clerk’s Office with a $100 fee ($50 for renewals). 2. Provide required documentation including a scaled site plan, proof of ownership, and proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance. 3. Complete a final inspection by Memphis/Shelby County Code Enforcement to verify compliance with safety codes.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Shelby County?
1. Submit a completed Short Term Rental Property Permit Application to the Shelby County Clerk’s Office with a $100 fee ($50 for renewals). 2. Provide required documentation including a scaled site plan, proof of ownership, and proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance. 3. Complete a final inspection by Memphis/Shelby County Code Enforcement to verify compliance with safety codes.

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