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Short-Term Rentals in Chattanooga, TN (2026)

7 verified short-term rentals rules for Chattanooga, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Permit Requirements

Chattanooga regulates short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) under Article XVII of the zoning code. A two-tiered system distinguishes homestays (owner-occupied) from absentee rentals, with specific zone allowances for each.

Chattanooga Short-Term Rental Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Noise Rules

STVR guests in Chattanooga must comply with the city's noise ordinance. Operators are responsible for informing guests about noise rules and responding to complaints.

Chattanooga STR Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

Taxes & Fees

Chattanooga STVR operators must collect and remit the Hamilton County hotel/motel tax and the Tennessee state sales tax on accommodation. The combined rate is approximately 12-15%.

Chattanooga STR Taxes & Fees

Heavy Restrictions

Parking Rules

STVR guests in Chattanooga must follow city parking regulations. Operators should provide parking information, especially in the downtown and North Shore areas where parking is limited.

Chattanooga STR Parking Requirements

Some Restrictions

Occupancy Limits

Chattanooga caps short-term rental occupancy at two adults per bedroom plus two additional, with absolute maximums tied to Type 1 versus Type 2 status under Chapter 38.

STR Occupancy Caps

Some Restrictions

Insurance Requirements

Chattanooga requires every short-term rental operator to carry liability insurance and submit proof at permit application, ensuring coverage against guest injury claims under Chapter 38.

STR Liability Insurance

Some Restrictions

Primary-Residence-Only Rule

Chattanooga divides short-term rentals into Type 1 (owner-occupied primary residence) and Type 2 (non-primary). Type 1 is permitted broadly in residential zones; Type 2 faces stricter zoning limits citywide under Chapter 38.

Type 1 STR Primary-Residence Rule

Heavy Restrictions