Boston, Massachusetts
Short-Term Rental Regulations — Suffolk County
STR Status
Permit & Licensing
Owner Requirements
Limits & Restrictions
Taxes & Fees
Zoning Restrictions
- owner-occupied condominiums, single-family, two-family, and three-family buildings only
Official Sources
Short-term rental rules in Boston, Massachusetts
Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) in Boston, Massachusetts are allowed under certain conditions. Operators must obtain a permit (fee: $25–$200 per year). The property must be owner-occupied.
Frequently asked questions
Are short-term rentals allowed in Boston, Massachusetts?
Short-term rentals (including Airbnb and Vrbo) are allowed under certain conditions in Boston, Massachusetts. The property must be owner-occupied.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Boston?
A short-term rental permit is required, a business license is also required, the fee is $25–$200 per year.
Are there stay limits for short-term rentals in Boston?
Yes — Boston sets a cap of 365 rental nights per year.
Where do these Boston short-term rental rules come from?
These details are verified against Boston's official short-term rental ordinance and updated when the rules change.
Always verify before you buy. Short-term-rental rules change often and may not be fully current here. Confirm directly with Boston, Suffolk County, or Massachusetts authorities — and consult a qualified attorney — before purchasing property or operating an STR. This is not legal advice.