Salem, Massachusetts

Short-Term Rental Regulations — Essex County

Conditional

STR Status

Permit: RequiredFee: $50
✓ Verified against the official ordinance.View source· Last verified 6/8/2026
$50License Cost

Permit & Licensing

Permit RequiredYes
License Cost$50
Renewalannual
Business License RequiredNot specified
WaitlistNot specified

Owner Requirements

Owner Occupancy RequiredNot specified
Primary Residence RequiredYes
Insurance RequiredNot specified

Limits & Restrictions

Parking RequiredNot specified

Taxes & Fees

Transient Occupancy Tax / TOTContact city for rates

Zoning Restrictions

  • yes - restricted to certain neighborhoods

Official Sources

salemma.gov/STR
Data confidence: 93%Last updated: June 8, 2026

Short-term rental rules in Salem, Massachusetts

Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) in Salem, Massachusetts are allowed under certain conditions. Operators must obtain a permit (fee: $50). The home must be the host's primary residence.

Frequently asked questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Salem, Massachusetts?

Short-term rentals (including Airbnb and Vrbo) are allowed under certain conditions in Salem, Massachusetts. The home must be the host's primary residence.

Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Salem?

A short-term rental permit is required, the fee is $50.

Where do these Salem short-term rental rules come from?

These details are verified against Salem'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 Salem, Essex County, or Massachusetts authorities — and consult a qualified attorney — before purchasing property or operating an STR. This is not legal advice.