Memphis, TN Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)

Section 5-44-5(C) spells out what a Memphis STR registration must include. Applications 'shall be applied for and renewed electronically or in writing, on such forms as the division of public works may prescribe,' and those forms must contain the unit's nightly capacity and site plan, the owner's agreement to protect neighbors' quiet enjoyment, proof of current ownership, 'verification of insurance evidencing fire, hazard, and liability coverages of not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence,' a signed 'compliance verification form' certifying the unit meets applicable building, health, and life safety code provisions, an acknowledgement that the applicant has read the ordinance, disclosure of any citations in the last 12 months, and identification of a 'responsible party' residing or located within 50 miles who can respond in person to alleged violations involving noise, disorderly conduct, overcrowding, traffic, or nuisances.

The division of public works only issues the permit once several conditions in Section 5-44-5(G) are met: the application is 'fully completed, signed and the application fee included,' the proposed operation will comply with the ordinance, property maintenance code, and insurance requirements, the applicant made no false statements, hasn't had a similar permit denied, suspended, or revoked within the preceding 365 days, has no unpaid court fines tied to STR violations, and is current on local property taxes citywide. Owners can swap their designated responsible party at any time under Section 5-44-5(F) by notifying the division electronically or in writing before making units available again.