Overview: STR Status in College Grove, TN

Short-term rentals ARE explicitly allowed in College Grove, TN, subject to City of Franklin regulations as College Grove falls within Franklin's municipal jurisdiction. The City of Franklin defines short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) as residential dwelling units rented in their entirety for time periods less than 21 days. This definition provides the legal framework for STR operations in the College Grove area.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in College Grove, TN

Step 1: Application Process

• Submit electronic application to the Building and Neighborhood Services department
• No paper applications accepted since November 7, 2022
• Applications must be filed through the City's online portal: franklin.idtplans.com/secure/
• Review the provided how-to document for detailed submittal guidance

Step 2: Application Requirements

The application process requires comprehensive documentation including:

• Property ownership verification
• Detailed property information
• Contact information for local emergency response
• Compliance with all applicable building and safety codes
• Proof of insurance coverage
• Payment of applicable fees

Step 3: Review and Approval Process

Applications undergo review by the Building and Neighborhood Services department to ensure compliance with all municipal requirements before approval is granted.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Requirements

1. Electronic Application submitted through City portal
2. Business Tax and License Applications (linked document available)
3. Property Inspection (if required by building codes)
4. Insurance Verification meeting City requirements
5. Compliance with Municipal Code governing STVRs

Supporting Documentation

• Property ownership documentation
• Emergency contact information
• Building safety compliance certificates
• Local contact person information for guest assistance

Reference Materials

• Municipal Code Text (available as linked document)
• STVR Checklist (comprehensive requirements list)
• Business Tax and License Applications (separate forms)
• STVR FAQs (frequently asked questions document)

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Municipal Level (City of Franklin)

• Definition: Residential dwelling units rented in their entirety for periods less than 21 days
• Application Process: Electronic submission only through designated portal
• Approval Required: Must receive Building and Neighborhood Services approval before operation
• Compliance Required: Must adhere to all provisions of Municipal Code governing STVRs

County Level (Williamson County)

The provided content does not specify county-level regulations specific to College Grove. STR operations would primarily be governed by City of Franklin municipal regulations.

State Level (Tennessee)

The National League of Cities guide provides context for typical state-level considerations that may apply:

Common State-Level Regulations

• Transient Occupancy Tax: Usually remitted by hosts or platforms
• Health and Safety Standards: State building and fire codes
• Business Registration: General business license requirements
• Zoning Compliance: Adherence to state zoning law frameworks

Regulatory Best Practices

The NLC guide identifies common regulatory approaches including:

• Permit Requirements: Most cities require permits for STR operation
• Health and Safety Standards: Fire safety equipment, carbon monoxide detectors
• Occupancy Limits: Maximum guests per stay (typically 2 per bedroom)
• Noise and Nuisance Controls: Compliance with existing noise and disturbance ordinances
• Primary Residence Requirements: Some jurisdictions require owner-occupancy

Contact Information

Primary STR Authority

Ben Onisa
City of Franklin
Neighborhood Resources Supervisor
Franklin, TN 37064
Email: ben.onisa@franklintn.gov
Office: 615-550-6727

City Departments

Building and Neighborhood Services
General Information: 615-791-3217

Office Locations

Community Development:
120 9th Ave South, Franklin, TN

Billing & Licensing and Technology:
204 9th Ave South, Franklin, TN

Administration:
740 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN

Fire Administration:
507 New Highway 96 West, Franklin, TN

Mailing Address

City of Franklin
109 3rd Ave South
Franklin, TN 37064

Online Resources

• STR Application Portal: franklin.idtplans.com/secure/
• How-to Document: Available through City website
• Additional Resources: Available through Building and Neighborhood Services department

Key Source Links

Primary Regulatory Documents

• Franklin STVR Information Page: www.franklintn.gov/government/departments-a-j/building-and-neighborhood-services/zoning-administration-and-inquiries/short-term-vacation-rentals
• Electronic Application Portal: franklin.idtplans.com/secure/
• Submittal Process Guide: www.franklintn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/35593/638054034324470000

Supporting Documents

• STVR Checklist: www.franklintn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/36792/638180252125070000
• Municipal Code Text: www.franklintn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/34844/637897662499370000
• Business Tax and License Applications: www.franklintn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/28001/636655202658070000
• STVR FAQs: www.franklintn.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/34568/637819876045530000

General Reference

• NLC STR Regulations Guide: www.nlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Short-Term-Rental-Regulations.pdf

Important Note: This guide is based on the provided content from City of Franklin official sources. For the most current information and specific regulatory questions, contact Ben Onisa directly or visit the official City of Franklin website. Regulations may be updated, and investors should verify current requirements before beginning operations.