Memphis short-term rentals are capped at two guests per bedroom plus two, with a hard overall maximum set by the building code. The occupancy limit must be posted inside the unit and listed on all booking platforms.
The Memphis STR ordinance sets maximum occupancy at two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, consistent with common vacation-rental practice. A three-bedroom home is capped at eight overnight guests; a studio at two. The International Property Maintenance Code as adopted by Memphis provides an overriding cap tied to sleeping-room square footage (70 sf first occupant, 50 sf each additional). Daytime event occupancy for weddings or parties is separately limited; most residential STRs are prohibited from hosting events exceeding the overnight cap without a Special Event Permit. The posted occupancy must appear in the listing and inside the unit near the entry. Over-occupancy is a common complaint basis in Memphis bachelor-party markets, particularly Downtown lofts and Midtown Victorians. Repeat over-occupancy triggers fines and permit review. Hosts using dynamic pricing for football weekends should confirm the guest count at booking and include a guest-list clause in the rental agreement.
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
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Memphis, TN
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Memphis, TN
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Memphis, TN
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See how Memphis's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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