Short-term rental permit rules in Knoxville, TN — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Knoxville requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a permit. The STR ordinance took effect in January 2018. Permits are required, with occupancy caps based on bedroom count, and caps on STR units in certain zones.
Knoxville regulates short-term rentals through an ordinance effective January 2018, subsequently updated with stricter provisions. Operators must obtain an STR permit from the city. Properties must comply with safety inspections, fire code, and building standards. Occupancy is limited based on bedroom count or square footage. Certain zoning areas have caps on the number of STR permits issued. Operators must designate a local responsible party and maintain a valid business license. Tennessee's Short-Term Rental Unit Act provides the statewide framework.
Operating without a permit results in fines and enforcement action. Repeated violations may result in permanent permit denial.
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See how Knoxville's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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