Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Ossipee, NH?

Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Ossipee, NH, but they REQUIRE A PERMIT. The Town of Ossipee implemented a comprehensive short-term rental ordinance effective June 4, 2024, in response to the growing popularity of short-term rentals. This new regulatory framework aims to balance property owners' interests with community concerns by ensuring the safety of occupants while minimizing disruptions to residential neighborhoods.

Key Point: As of June 4, 2024, operating a short-term rental in Ossipee without a valid permit is illegal and subject to significant penalties.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Ossipee

Step 1: Understand the Legal Framework

Before proceeding, ensure your property qualifies as a short-term rental under Ossipee's definition: any individually or collectively owned single-family house, dwelling unit, condominium, cooperative, or timeshare that is rented for less than 30 consecutive days. This definition excludes campers, camping trailers, and tents.

Step 2: Secure Proper Zoning

Confirm that your property is located in a zoning district that allows short-term rentals. If uncertain, contact the Ossipee Planning/Zoning Department for confirmation.

Step 3: Complete the Application Process

1. Obtain Application: Download the STR permit application from the Town of Ossipee's official website or pick up a copy at Town Hall
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents listed below
3. Submit Application: Submit completed application with all supporting documents
4. Schedule Safety Inspection: Coordinate with the Zoning Officer/Building Inspector
5. Pay Permit Fee: Submit payment according to the Board of Selectmen's fee schedule
6. Wait for Approval: Applications must be signed by the Selectboard or its designee

Step 4: Prepare for Operations

• Install required safety equipment (smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher)
• Establish trash management protocols
• Designate parking areas for guests
• Create guest guidelines covering noise, conduct, and property rules

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Permits and Licenses

1. STR Permit (Required)

   • Valid for two years
   • Must be renewed before expiration
   • Non-transferable to new property owners
   • Application available at Town Hall or online

2. NH Rooms and Meals Tax License

   • Current NH Rooms and Meals Tax license required
   • OR rental agency details if taxes are paid through an agency
   • Contact NH Department of Revenue Administration for registration

Safety and Compliance Documentation

3. Safety Inspection Certificate

   • Conducted by Zoning Officer/Building Inspector
   • Must verify:
     • Functioning smoke and CO detectors
     • Proper emergency egress windows and doors
     • Functional fire extinguisher in kitchen areas
     • Handrails and railings conforming to NH State Building Code
     • Compliance with codes in effect at time of construction

4. Property Documentation

   • Proof of property ownership
   • Property insurance information
   • Site plan showing designated parking areas

Operational Guidelines

5. Occupancy Calculations

   • Maximum guests: 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests
   • Calculate based on number of bedrooms, not sleeping capacity

6. Trash Management Plan

   • Regular trash removal schedule
   • Compliance with town waste disposal regulations

7. Guest Information Package

   • Town ordinances and state laws
   • Noise restrictions and quiet hours
   • Parking guidelines
   • Emergency contact information
   • Property rules and regulations

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Ossipee Town Regulations (Effective June 4, 2024)

Occupancy and Guest Limits:

• Maximum occupancy: 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests
• Strict adherence to posted occupancy limits required
• Basement sleeping areas prohibited unless two means of egress available

Property Standards:

• All properties must meet NH State Building Code and Fire Code requirements
• Emergency egress windows and doors must be maintained and operational
• Smoke and CO detectors required in areas defined by state codes
• Fire extinguisher must be visibly installed in kitchen areas
• Handrails and railings must conform to state building code requirements

Operational Requirements:

• Trash Management: Regular removal required; accumulation prohibited
• Parking: All vehicles must park in designated areas on the property
• Signage: Must comply with Ossipee Sign Ordinance
• Noise and Conduct: Guests must adhere to all town ordinances and state laws

Prohibited Activities:

• Incidental camping (tents, travel trailers, RVs)
• Subletting by guests
• Use of property for special events
• Operation of STR in prohibited zoning districts

Enforcement and Penalties

Monetary Fines:

• $1,000 per violation
• Each day of violation constitutes a separate violation

Permit Revocation:

• Board of Selectmen can revoke permits for repeated violations
• Three validated noise complaints within one year can result in revocation
• Revocation requires notice and public hearing

Reapplication Restrictions:

• If permit revoked, owner cannot reapply for one year

Carroll County Regulations

No additional county-specific short-term rental regulations were identified in the provided sources beyond Ossipee's municipal requirements.

New Hampshire State Regulations

Short-term rental operators in Ossipee must also comply with:

1. NH Rooms and Meals Tax Requirements

   • Registration and remittance of state taxes
   • Compliance with NH Department of Revenue Administration rules

2. NH State Building and Fire Codes

   • Compliance with current state building codes
   • Adherence to fire safety regulations
   • Proper installation and maintenance of safety equipment

3. NH Consumer Protection Laws

   • Truth in advertising requirements
   • Fair housing compliance
   • ADA accessibility considerations where applicable

4. Local Health and Safety Standards

   • Compliance with NH Department of Environmental Services requirements
   • Proper septic system operation and maintenance where applicable

Contact Information for Local Authority

Town of Ossipee - Primary Contact

Town Hall

• Address: Ossipee, NH
• Website: www.ossipee.org
• Main Office: Contact through website or town hall

Planning/Zoning Department

• Contact: Zoning Officer/Building Inspector
• Function: Safety inspections, permit approval, zoning compliance
• Contact: Through Town Hall or official website

Board of Selectmen

• Function: STR permit approval and revocation authority
• Contact: Through Town Hall

State-Level Contacts

NH Department of Revenue Administration

• Function: Rooms and Meals Tax registration and compliance
• Website: www.revenue.nh.gov

NH Department of Environmental Services

• Function: Septic system approvals and environmental compliance
• Website: www.des.nh.gov

NH Department of Safety - Division of Fire Standards and Training and Emergency Medical Services

• Function: Fire code compliance and safety standards
• Website: www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/fstems

Important Resources and Source Links

Primary Sources

1. Town of Ossipee Official Website: www.ossipee.org

   • STR permit applications
   • Town ordinances and regulations
   • Board of Selectmen meeting schedules

2. North Conway Realty Blog - STR Permit Requirement: northconwayrealty.com/blog/posts/2024/06/07/ossipee-nh-now-requires-str-permit/

   • Comprehensive breakdown of Ossipee's STR ordinance
   • Permit requirements and application process
   • Safety inspection details
   • Enforcement procedures

3. NH Municipal Association - Land Use Regulations: www.nhmunicipal.org/town-city-magazine/state-local-land-use-regulations-new-hampshire-2024-update

   • Statewide context for municipal STR regulations
   • Confirmation of Ossipee's adoption of STR regulations in 2024
   • Comparison with other NH communities

Additional Resources

4. Ossipee Lake Alliance - Freedom STR Guidance: www.ossipeelake.org/2022/03/freedom-posts-guidance-on-short-term-rentals/
   • Regional context for Carroll County STR regulations
   • Similar requirements in neighboring towns
   • Septic system compliance examples

Legal and Professional Assistance

• NH Municipal Association Legal Services: www.nhmunicipal.org/legal-services
• Local Legal Professionals: Contact for specific legal guidance on compliance and regulatory interpretation

Important Disclaimer: This guide is based on information available as of June 2024 and is intended for informational purposes only. Regulations can change, and this information may not reflect the most current requirements. Always consult with the Town of Ossipee directly or seek legal counsel for the most up-to-date and specific guidance for your situation.