Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Smyrna, TN?

Short-term rentals are PROHIBITED in Smyrna, TN. The Town of Smyrna has explicitly banned all short-term rentals of single detached dwellings or portions thereof for periods less than three months. This restriction is codified in the Town's Municipal Zoning Ordinance and is actively enforced.

Key Restriction: No rental periods shorter than 90 days (3 months) are permitted for single detached dwellings or portions thereof.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in This Market

Important: Given the current legal restrictions, starting a traditional short-term rental business in Smyrna is not legally viable. However, if you're committed to operating in this market, consider these alternatives:

1. Long-term Rental Strategy: Convert your property to traditional long-term rentals (90+ day minimum stays)
2. Alternative Markets: Consider nearby municipalities with more favorable STR regulations
3. Regulatory Monitoring: Stay informed about potential future ordinance changes by monitoring Town Council meetings and Planning & Zoning communications

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

While traditional STRs are prohibited, if operating a long-term rental business in Smyrna, you would need:

Business Licenses

• Rutherford County Business License: $15.00 (can be applied for online at www.tncountyclerk.com or by calling 615-898-7800, ext. 2)
• Town of Smyrna Business License: $15.00 (contact Smyrna Town Clerk)

Tax Obligations (If Operating Any Rental Business)

• Business Tax: Paid yearly on gross receipts to the State of Tennessee
• Sales Tax: Local and state taxes paid quarterly to the State of Tennessee
• Occupancy Tax: 5% of monthly gross receipts, paid monthly to both County and City

Documentation Requirements

• Lease Agreement: Must be furnished upon request by the Town
• Property Documentation: Ownership verification and zoning compliance
• Insurance: Comprehensive liability coverage recommended

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Town of Smyrna Municipal Regulations

• Minimum Stay Requirement: 90 days (3 months) minimum for all single detached dwellings
• Enforcement: Violations result in citations after proper notification from the Town
• Documentation: Property owner-tenant agreements must be available upon request
• Zoning Compliance: All rentals must comply with underlying zoning classifications

Rutherford County Requirements

• Tax Registration: All rental properties subject to business tax, sales tax, and occupancy tax
• Business License: Required for all rental operations regardless of duration
• Platform Inclusion: Airbnb, VRBO, and privately operated rentals all subject to same tax requirements

State of Tennessee Context

• Tennessee state law provides framework for municipal enforcement of STR regulations
• State law allows municipalities to impose daily fines (typically $50/day) plus court costs for violations

Contact Information

Town of Smyrna - Planning & Zoning (STR Oversight)

Address: 315 South Lowry St, Smyrna, TN 37167
Phone: (615) 459-2553
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Website: www.townofsmyrna.org/departments/planning_zoning/short-term_rentals.php

Rutherford County Clerk's Office (Business Licenses & Taxes)

Smyrna Office:
205 I St, Smyrna, TN 37167
Phone: (615) 459-9692
Fax: (615) 355-4118
Hours: 8AM - 4PM Monday-Thursday, 8AM - 5PM Friday

Main Office (Murfreesboro):
319 N Maple St, Suite 121, Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Phone: (615) 898-7800
Fax: (615) 898-7830
Hours: 8AM - 4PM Monday-Thursday, 8AM - 5PM Friday

Online Services: www.tncountyclerk.com
General Info Line: 615-898-7800, ext. 2

Town of Smyrna - General Information

Phone: (615) 459-2553
Website: www.townofsmyrna.org

Links to Source Pages

1. Town of Smyrna Official STR Page: www.townofsmyrna.org/departments/planning_zoning/short-term_rentals.php
2. Rutherford County Rental Tax Information: rutherfordcountytn.gov/rental-tax
3. Rutherford County Clerk Online Services: www.tncountyclerk.com/
4. Tennessee County Clerk Portal: www.tncountyclerk.com/
5. Town of Smyrna Planning & Zoning Department: www.townofsmyrna.org/departments/planning_zoning/

Additional Resources

• Municipal Code: Available through the Town of Smyrna Legal Department
• Town Council Meetings: Agendas and minutes available at smyrnatn.portal.civicclerk.com/
• Interactive GIS Maps: For zoning and property information at www.townofsmyrna.org/departments/planning_zoning/interactive_gis_maps.php

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available information as of the provided sources. Municipal regulations can change; always verify current requirements with local authorities before making investment decisions.