Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Marshfield, MA?

YES, short-term rentals are allowed in Marshfield, MA. However, they are subject to specific regulations, registration requirements, taxes, and annual inspections. Marshfield has implemented a regulatory framework for short-term rentals that includes both municipal oversight and tax obligations. As of recent reports, the town requires all short-term rental properties to be registered and inspected annually, and applies a 6% local lodging tax to all short-term rental stays. Property owners must also comply with zoning regulations that may affect the ability to rent certain properties on a short-term basis.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Marshfield, MA

Step-by-Step Process

1. Verify Zoning Compliance

   • Confirm your property is located in a zoning district that allows short-term rentals
   • Review Marshfield's zoning bylaws to ensure your property type is permitted for STR use
   • Contact the Planning Department if you have questions about specific zoning requirements

2. Register Your Property

   • Complete annual registration process for all short-term rental properties
   • Submit required documentation to the appropriate town department
   • Pay any associated registration fees

3. Schedule Annual Inspection

   • Arrange for mandatory annual inspection of your property
   • Address any code violations or safety concerns identified during inspection
   • Maintain compliance throughout the year

4. Implement Tax Collection System

   • Set up systems to collect the 6% local lodging tax from guests
   • Establish processes for tax remittance to the town
   • Maintain accurate records of all rental transactions

5. Obtain Necessary Permits

   • Secure any additional permits required for your specific property type
   • Ensure compliance with building, health, and safety codes
   • Renew permits and licenses as required

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Documentation Requirements

• Property registration application
• Proof of property ownership or lease agreement
• Certificate of inspection completion
• Tax registration documentation
• Zoning compliance verification
• Insurance documentation (if required)

Permits and Licenses

• Short-term rental registration permit
• Annual inspection certificate
• Building permits (if renovations required)
• Health department permits (if applicable)
• Business license (if required)

Guidelines to Follow

• Annual registration and inspection requirements
• Local lodging tax collection and remittance
• Zoning compliance requirements
• Safety and building code standards
• Guest accommodation standards

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Municipal Regulations (Marshfield)

Tax Obligations:

• 6% local lodging tax applied to all short-term rental stays
• Tax applies to properties rented more than 14 days per year
• Hosts responsible for collecting and remitting taxes to the town

Registration and Inspection:

• Annual registration required for all STR properties
• Annual inspection mandatory for compliance verification
• Properties must meet safety and building code standards

Zoning Compliance:

• STRs subject to local zoning laws
• Some property types may have restrictions on short-term rental activity
• Zoning districts may have specific requirements or prohibitions

County Regulations (Plymouth County)

• County-level regulations appear to defer to municipal authority for STR oversight
• General county health and safety codes apply
• No specific county-level STR tax or registration requirements identified

State Regulations (Massachusetts)

ADU Law Impact (Effective February 2, 2025):

• Massachusetts allows one Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) by right per single-family lot
• ADUs cannot be used for short-term rentals (under 31 days) unless expressly allowed by municipality
• Local towns can regulate ADU short-term rental usage through local bylaws

Statewide Considerations:

• Massachusetts General Laws apply to all rental properties
• State health, safety, and building codes must be observed
• Consumer protection laws apply to rental transactions

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact

Town of Marshfield

• Address: 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050
• Phone: (781) 834-5554
• Alternate Phone: (781) 834-5509

Department-Specific Contacts

Planning Department

• Website: Laws & Regulations
• Phone: (781) 834-5554
• Address: Town Hall, 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050

Building Department

• Responsible for inspections and permits
• Phone: (781) 834-5554
• Address: Town Hall, 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050

Town Clerk

• Handles business registrations and licensing
• Phone: (781) 834-5554
• Address: Town Hall, 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050

Important Links and Resources

Official Municipal Resources

• Marshfield Laws & Regulations
• Marshfield Municipal Code
• Town of Marshfield Zoning Bylaws
• Marshfield Permit Management System

State Resources

• MA General Laws
• MA Wetlands Protection Act
• Chapter 91 Waterways

News and Updates

• Wicked Local - STR Tax Article

Legal Resources

• Vanderveen Law - MA ADU Information

Additional Information

• Marshfield Assessors Database
• Marshfield GIS Mapping

Key Compliance Notes

Critical Requirements:

• Annual registration and inspection are mandatory
• 6% local lodging tax must be collected and remitted
• Zoning compliance must be verified before operating
• Properties must meet all safety and building code standards

Ongoing Obligations:

• Maintain current registration status
• Complete annual inspections
• Collect and remit taxes monthly/quarterly as required
• Stay updated on any regulatory changes
• Respond promptly to any town inquiries or violations

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

• Fines for operating without registration
• penalties for tax non-payment
• Potential enforcement actions for zoning violations
• Required remedial actions for inspection failures

This guide provides the current regulatory framework for short-term rentals in Marshfield, MA. Given the evolving nature of STR regulations, investors should regularly consult with local authorities and stay informed about any changes to these requirements.