Short-term rental permit rules in Chattanooga, TN — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
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 defines a short-term vacation rental as a structure with no more than 5 bedrooms rented for up to 30 days. The city uses a two-tiered system: 'homestays' (owner-occupied properties) and 'absentee' rentals (non-owner-occupied). Both types require a business license and registration. Homestays are allowed in more residential zones while absentee rentals face more restrictions in residential areas but are expanded in commercial districts where hotels are permitted. All STVRs must register with the city and comply with fire, safety, and building codes.
Operating without proper registration results in fines up to $500 per day from an administrative hearing officer.
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See how Chattanooga's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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