Step 1
Verify Zoning Eligibility
Check if your property is within the 'STVR Overlay' or in a zone that allows non-owner occupied rentals (like R-3 or C-2).
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Official resourceCross-referenced against 4 official sources — municipal codes, planning-department pages, and government registries.
The City of Chattanooga requires a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) Certificate for all rentals under 30 days. Regulations distinguish between owner-occupied 'Homestays' and non-owner occupied rentals, with the latter being strictly limited to specific zoning districts and the STVR Overlay District.
To host an Airbnb in the City of Chattanooga, you must first determine if your property is in a permitted zone, as non-owner occupied rentals are banned in many residential areas like R-1. You must apply for an annual STVR Certificate which costs $500 for the first year and $250 for renewals. Hosts are required to carry $1 million in liability insurance and pass a fire safety inspection. Once permitted, you must collect and pay a 4% city occupancy tax in addition to state sales taxes.
Step-by-step guide for Chattanooga
Check if your property is within the 'STVR Overlay' or in a zone that allows non-owner occupied rentals (like R-3 or C-2).
Obtain proof of primary residence (voter registration), proof of ownership, and a certificate of insurance for $1 million.
Submit the STVR application via the online portal and pay the $250 application fee plus the $250 annual fee.
Schedule and pass an inspection by the Chattanooga Fire Department to ensure compliance with safety codes.
Regulatory information is AI-researched from public city/county codes for educational purposes. Details may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify requirements directly with your city/county planning department before operating a short-term rental.
Researched & verified by Learn STR at GoStudioM