Short-term rental permit rules in Newton, MA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Newton requires short-term rental operators to register with the state DOR and comply with city zoning, with STRs generally restricted to owner-occupied dwellings in residential zones.
Newton requires operators of short-term rentals (stays under 32 consecutive days) to register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue under MGL Chapter 64G before renting. The city has adopted regulations limiting STRs primarily to owner-occupied properties, meaning the host must maintain the unit as their primary residence. Non-owner-occupied investor STRs are generally not permitted in single-family and two-family residential zones under the Newton Zoning Ordinance. Operators must provide proof of property insurance (minimum 1 million dollars liability per MGL c.64G s.14), supply contact information to the city for complaints, and ensure the unit meets state sanitary code (105 CMR 410) and building code life safety standards including smoke and CO detectors. Registration and tax remittance are required before the first booking.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Newton, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle permit requirements.
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