Memphis short-term rentals must comply with the citywide noise ordinance and carry a 24/7 local contact responsible for resolving disturbances. Operators face escalating fines and permit revocation for repeated noise violations, with quiet hours beginning at 10 p.m.
Memphis adopted a short-term rental ordinance in 2022 that requires every STR to post a local contact phone number answered 24 hours a day. Guests must observe the citywide noise ordinance, with amplified music and loud gatherings prohibited from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. in residential zones. Operators must post house rules including quiet hours inside the property and provide them in the rental listing. Three substantiated noise violations within 12 months trigger review and possible revocation of the STR permit. Memphis hotspots like Downtown near FedExForum, Beale Street adjacent blocks, and Midtown neighborhoods such as Cooper-Young generate most complaint volume during music festivals and SEC football weekends. Tennessee Code §66-28 (Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act) does not cover STRs under 30 days, so the municipal framework controls. Hosts should install a noise monitoring device such as Minut or NoiseAware to document compliance and receive early alerts before neighbors call.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Memphis, TN
The City of Memphis does not regulate yard ornaments on private property. Statuary, religious displays, and decorative landscape elements are generally allow...
Memphis, TN
Memphis has no ordinance setting size, height, or hours limits for inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Wind and severe weather (thun...
Memphis, TN
Memphis does not impose specific install-by or take-down-by dates for holiday lights on private property. Holiday-light regulation in Memphis is overwhelming...
Memphis, TN
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Memphis require permits from Construction Code Enforcement for gas-line installation, electrical work, plumbing, and any structu...
Memphis, TN
Memphis - the global capital of dry-rub barbecue - has no smoker-specific ordinance for single-family use, and the cultural and culinary tradition of backyar...
Memphis, TN
Memphis adopts the International Fire Code through Chapter 9 (Fire Prevention) with local amendments, including IFC Section 308 prohibiting open-flame cookin...
See how Memphis's noise rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.