Overview

Short-term rentals are allowed in Jamestown, Tennessee. However, based on the available municipal code (December 2004, with 2011 updates), no specific short-term rental ordinances were identified in the current city regulations. This guide provides essential information for investors considering STR operations in Jamestown and addresses both local and state-level requirements.

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

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Property Assessment and Compliance

   • Ensure your property meets all applicable building, fire, and safety codes
   • Verify zoning compliance for STR use (contact city planning department)
   • Obtain necessary insurance coverage for rental operations

2. Business Registration and Licensing

   • Register your business with the City of Jamestown
   • Obtain a Tennessee sales tax account number if required
   • Secure appropriate business liability insurance

3. Operational Setup

   • Establish property management protocols
   • Create guest communication systems
   • Implement safety and emergency procedures
   • Develop house rules and rental agreements

4. Local Compliance Verification

   • Contact the city to confirm current STR requirements
   • Verify if any new ordinances have been adopted since the 2011 code update
   • Ensure ongoing compliance with city, county, and state regulations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

City-Level Requirements:

• Business Registration: Required with the City Recorder
• Privilege License: Annual business license for commercial operations
• Fire Safety Compliance: Properties must meet International Fire Code standards
• Building Permits: May be required for property modifications

County-Level Requirements:

• Fentress County Business License: For commercial operations
• County Tax Registration: For applicable taxes

State-Level Requirements:

• Tennessee Sales Tax Account: Required for lodging businesses
• General Business Tax: Applicable based on gross receipts
• Workers' Compensation: Required if employees are hired
• Professional Liability Insurance: Recommended for property management

Documentation Checklist:

• Property deed or lease agreement
• Insurance policies (liability, property, business)
• Business registration documents
• Sales tax registration
• Fire safety inspection certificates (if required)
• Building permits (if applicable)

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Jamestown:

No specific STR ordinances were found in the current municipal code (2004-2011). However, properties must comply with:

• International Fire Code (adopted by reference in Municipal Code §7-201)
• General municipal codes for business operations
• Zoning requirements (as defined in Title 14 of the municipal code)
• Business license and taxation requirements (Title 5)

Fentress County:

No specific county-level STR regulations identified in the provided content.

State of Tennessee:

Tennessee has relatively permissive STR regulations at the state level:

• No state-level ban on short-term rentals
• Standard business tax obligations apply
• Sales tax requirements for lodging (15% accommodation tax)
• Local zoning authority allows municipalities to regulate STRs
• Insurance requirements standard for rental properties
• Safety compliance required under Tennessee Fire Code

Contact Information for Local Authority

City of Jamestown, Tennessee:

• City Hall: 100 Municipal Drive, Jamestown, TN 38556
• City Recorder: Patricia Gail Dishmon
• Mayor: Gwenith Duncan
• Board of Mayor and Aldermen: Regular meetings held second Monday of each month at 6:00 PM
• Phone: Contact city hall for current phone numbers
• Address: City of Jamestown, TN 38556

Key Departments for STR Compliance:

• Building Inspector: For permit and code compliance
• Fire Department: For fire safety inspections and codes
• City Recorder: For business licenses and registrations
• Planning/Zoning: For land use compliance

County Authority:

• Fentress County Government: Contact for county-level business requirements
• Fentress County Trustee: For tax collections

Important Considerations for STR Investors

Regulatory Environment:

• Evolving Landscape: Monitor for new city ordinances (last update was 2011)
• Planning Commission: May have input on STR development
• Neighborhood Impact: Consider community concerns about rental properties

Compliance Priorities:

1. Fire Safety: International Fire Code compliance mandatory
2. Business Licensing: Ensure all required licenses are current
3. Tax Obligations: Maintain proper tax registrations and filings
4. Insurance Coverage: Adequate liability and property protection
5. Neighbor Relations: Maintain good community relationships

Due Diligence Recommendations:

• Contact city officials to verify current requirements
• Consult with local real estate professionals about STR market
• Review any recent city council meeting minutes for STR discussions
• Consider the impact of state tourism and lodging trends

Sources:

• Jamestown Municipal Code (December 2004, Change 1 July 11, 2011): jamestowntn.gov/sites/default/files/MunicipalCode.pdf

Note: This guide is based on available municipal code information. Investors should verify current requirements with city officials, as regulations may have been updated since the last municipal code revision in 2011.