What should Lowell hosts know about short-term rentals are explicitly prohibited?

Short-term rentals are explicitly prohibited in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

What should Lowell hosts know about primary residence is strictly required;?

Primary residence is strictly required; you cannot operate a dedicated investment property as an STR in Lowell.

What are the key requirements for Lowell hosts?

A local placard containing the Property Manager's contact information must be posted at the property in at least 48 pt. font.

What zoning rules apply to STRs in Lowell?

The city has historically treated STRs as illegal in certain zones due to zoning ambiguity, so check specific parcel zoning before applying.

Lowell, MA Short-Term Rental Regulations & Requirements

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Eligibility11 rules

Lowell: You can have a co-host or property manager help manage your listing.
Lowell: Primary residence is strictly required; you cannot operate a dedicated investment property as an STR in Lowell.
Lowell limits hosts to a maximum of 1 STR properties per owner.
Lowell: Your HOA can prohibit short-term rentals even if the city allows them. Check your CC&Rs before applying.

Requirements11 rules

Lowell STR warning: A local placard containing the Property Manager's contact information must be posted at the property in at least 48 pt. font.
Lowell STR warning: Short-term rentals are explicitly prohibited in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Application process7 rules

Lowell STR permit - Step 2: Apply for Lowell Rental Unit Permit. Submit a Rental Unit Inspection Application to the Lowell Division of Development Services. Required documents: State Registration Certificate, Proof of Insurance, Emergency Contact Info. Time: 1-2 weeks. Cost: 100.

Fees & costs1 rule

Lowell charges a registration fee of $100 (annual).

Taxes2 rules

Massachusetts has a state sales tax of 0.057% that applies to STR rentals.
Lowell charges a Local Room Occupancy Excise of 0.06%. This applies to stays under 31 days. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax. Note: Major platforms like Airbnb and VRBO typically collect and remit both state and local taxes in Massachusetts.

Limits & restrictions4 rules

Lowell enforces quiet hours: 10pm-7am.
Lowell: Each person can only register ONE property for short-term rental. You cannot legally operate multiple STRs.
Lowell limits stays to a maximum of 28 nights.
Lowell occupancy calculation: Limited to 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, not to exceed local occupancy limits.. Count your bedrooms to determine your max guest limit.

Safety requirements1 rule

Lowell requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, fire inspection, posted maximum occupancy, posted emergency contact, Certificate of Inspection from Building Code inspector, Compliance with Massachusetts Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410.

Penalties3 rules

Lowell enforces the following penalties for STR violations: First offense: $100 fine. Second offense: $200 fine. Third offense: $300 fine. Daily fine: $300 per day. Permit may be revoked for violations.
Lowell: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions2 rules

Lowell: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
Lowell exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals (30+ days), extended stays, Stays under 14 days per year (exempt from state tax only, local registration may still apply).

Lowell

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Frequently asked questions

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Summary

Restriction level

Why this classification

In plain English

At a glance

4 things hosts often miss

Regulation details

How to get permitted

Upgrade to Pro

Frequently asked questions

1Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Lowell?

2What is the TOT tax rate in Lowell?

3Are there residency requirements for Lowell hosts?

4What are the penalties for non-compliance in Lowell?

Disclaimer