Shelby County, TN Short-Term Rentals: Insurance Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Liability minimum
- $1,000,000 per occurrence
- Coverage types
- Fire, hazard, and liability
- Proof
- Submitted with permit application
- Related safety
- Extinguisher, smoke and CO alarms
Summary
Shelby County requires STR applicants to submit proof of homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance, with liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence. Proof is submitted with the permit application, and applicants must also certify compliance with county technical codes.
Proof of insurance evidencing homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance. Liability coverage shall have limits of not less than one million dollars per occurrence.
Full Breakdown
As part of the Shelby County Short Term Rental Property Permit Application checklist, applicants must provide proof of insurance evidencing homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance, and the liability coverage shall have limits of not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence. This certificate of insurance or policy declarations page is a required attachment, alongside the scaled site plan and proof of ownership, before the Clerk will process the permit. The insurance requirement complements the county's fire-safety rules, which require a 5-pound ABC-rated fire extinguisher in each unit, UL 217 smoke alarms in sleeping areas and egress paths, and carbon monoxide detectors on every habitable floor. Together these ensure financial protection and basic life-safety.
Violations & Fines
Failing to submit proof of homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance, or carrying liability coverage below $1,000,000 per occurrence, means the application is incomplete and the permit will not issue. Letting coverage lapse, or misrepresenting insurance, is grounds for revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much insurance does a Shelby County STR need?
What safety equipment is required alongside insurance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
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