Memphis Ord. 5894 requires hosting platforms operating in the city to display valid permit numbers on every listing. Platforms that knowingly facilitate unpermitted STR bookings may face civil enforcement and listing-removal demands.
Under Ord. 5894, every Memphis STR listing on Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, or similar platforms must show the city-issued permit number. The Permit Office periodically audits platforms and issues takedown letters for unlisted permits. Tennessee's STR partial-preemption statute (TCA 13-7-602) prevents Memphis from outright banning short-term rentals citywide but explicitly preserves the city's authority to require permits, collect taxes, and enforce health-and-safety rules. Platforms that ignore takedown demands risk being added to a non-compliant-platform registry.
Listings without a visible permit number, platforms ignoring takedown letters, and hosts using fabricated permit numbers all face fines and listing-removal action coordinated with the platform.
Memphis, TN
STR operators in Memphis must collect and remit a total lodging tax of approximately 12%: 7% state sales tax + 5% Shelby County lodging tax (TCA §67-4-1401)....
Memphis, TN
Memphis requires STR permits under Code Ch. 5-44 (effective July 2023). Permit fee is $300 initial, $150 annual renewal. Permit number must appear on all lis...
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