Short-term rental permit rules in Worcester, MA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Worcester regulates short-term rentals under Massachusetts state law (Chapter 64G) and local ordinances. Operators must register with the city and the state. All STR units must meet building and fire safety codes.
Massachusetts enacted comprehensive STR legislation effective January 1, 2019, under Chapter 64G, Sections 3A-3F. Worcester requires STR operators to register with the city and maintain compliance with building, fire, and health codes. Operators must obtain a certificate of registration from the city clerk. The property must have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and meet occupancy limits. Owner-occupied properties may have different requirements than investor-owned units. Worcester's Inspectional Services division conducts inspections. STR listings must display the registration number. Liability insurance is recommended. The city maintains a registry of approved STR operators.
Operating without registration: fines per state law. Non-compliant units may be ordered to cease operations. State tax penalties for failure to collect excise tax.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Worcester County.
See how other cities in Worcester County handle permit requirements.
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