If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee and are considering vacation rentals, you may be wondering if they’re allowed in the state. The answer is yes, but there are some regulations and guidelines that you should be aware of before booking your stay.
What Are Vacation Rentals?
First, let’s define what we mean by “vacation rentals.” In general, vacation rentals are privately owned properties that are rented out to guests for short-term stays. This can include anything from a spare room in someone’s home to a whole house or apartment.
Tennessee Law on Vacation Rentals
In Tennessee, vacation rentals fall under the jurisdiction of local governments rather than the state. This means that regulations can vary depending on where you’re staying.
However, in 2018 the state passed a law that requires all vacation rental properties to obtain a permit from their local government in order to operate legally. This law also includes guidelines for things like safety inspections and insurance requirements.
Permitting Process
To obtain a permit for your vacation rental property in Tennessee, you’ll need to contact your local government (usually the city or county) and provide some basic information about your property and your plans for renting it out.
You’ll likely need to provide details like:
- The address of the property
- The number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Contact information for the owner or manager
- A description of the property and its amenities
- Your plans for advertising and renting out the property
Insurance Requirements
Under Tennessee law, all vacation rental properties must have liability insurance coverage of at least $1 million. This insurance should cover any damages or injuries that occur on the property during a guest’s stay.
It’s important to note that this insurance requirement applies to the property owner, not the guest. However, it’s always a good idea to purchase travel insurance or check with your own insurance provider to see if you’re covered in case of any accidents or emergencies during your stay.
Safety Inspections
In order to obtain a permit for your vacation rental property in Tennessee, you’ll need to have it inspected by a local official to ensure that it meets safety standards. This may include things like making sure smoke detectors are installed and functioning properly, checking for fire hazards, and verifying that electrical and plumbing systems are up-to-date.
Conclusion
In summary, vacation rentals are allowed in Tennessee as long as they comply with local regulations and obtain the necessary permits and insurance coverage. If you’re planning on renting a vacation property in Tennessee, be sure to do your research ahead of time and make sure that the property you’re considering is operating legally. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable stay in the Volunteer State.