Short-Term Rental Regulations — Tennessee
Hosts in Nashville must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $313, renewable Annual. Nashville allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, giving investors and property managers more flexibility. There is no annual day cap on rentals in Nashville. An occupancy tax of 6% applies to all short-term rental income. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit this tax automatically.
Day Limit Notes
No specific cap, but non-owner-occupied permits are restricted in residential zones.
⚠ Tax Notes
6% Hotel Occupancy Tax plus $2.50 per room per night, plus state sales tax.
⚠ Prohibited Zones
New non-owner-occupied STRs prohibited in residential zones since 2022.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Nashville?
Yes. Nashville requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $313 and must be renewed Annual. You must obtain this permit before listing your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms.
What is the occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Nashville?
Short-term rentals in Nashville are subject to a 6% occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts — you do not need to handle it separately. 6% Hotel Occupancy Tax plus $2.50 per room per night, plus state sales tax.
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in Nashville?
Yes. Nashville allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, meaning you can list investment properties or second homes that you do not personally occupy.
How many days per year can I rent my property in Nashville?
Nashville does not impose an annual day cap on short-term rentals. You can rent your property for as many days as you choose, subject to other local regulations. No specific cap, but non-owner-occupied permits are restricted in residential zones.
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in Nashville?
Yes. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit the 6% occupancy tax in Nashville on behalf of hosts. You do not need to separately collect or remit this tax — it is handled at the platform level.
Are there any prohibited zones for short-term rentals in Nashville?
Yes. Nashville prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: New non-owner-occupied STRs prohibited in residential zones since 2022.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Nashville?
Yes. Nashville requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city. This is separate from any permit requirement and typically involves providing property information and contact details to the local authority.
Official Source
Nashville City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.