Boston requires every short-term rental to register with the Inspectional Services Department, pay an annual fee, and display the registration number in every listing citywide.
Boston's STR registration portal requires the host to submit proof of primary residence, a certificate of insurance, a floor plan, smoke and CO detector certification from the Boston Fire Department, and the condo association consent letter if applicable. Annual fees are $200 for Home Share, $200 for Owner-Adjacent, and higher tiers have been phased out. The ISD-issued registration number must appear in every Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com listing or the platform is required under the pass-through agreement to delist the unit. Renewal is annual. Operating without registration triggers fines up to $300 per day and cease-and-desist orders.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Boston code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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