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

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Spring Hill, Tennessee under specific regulatory framework established by Ordinance 25-02 (amending Title 20, adding Chapter 5). The city recognizes "commercial and/or quasi-commercial short term rental units" as acceptable uses within the city, provided they comply with comprehensive public safety and operational standards. However, all STR operations require proper permitting and ongoing compliance with city regulations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Spring Hill

Step 1: Initial Compliance Assessment

Before purchasing or converting property for STR use, investors must verify zoning compliance and assess whether the property qualifies as a "grandfathered" unit under Tennessee Code Annotated Section 13-7-603. Properties that existed and operated as STRs prior to the ordinance adoption may have different regulatory requirements.

Step 2: Permit Application Process

1. Submit Application: Complete the official Short-Term Rental Permit Application with all required documentation
2. Application Review: City staff including Development Director and Fire Marshal review for compliance
3. Permit Issuance: Upon approval, permit issued within 30 days
4. Display Requirements: Permit number must be displayed on all advertising materials and platforms
5. Annual Renewal: Permits valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually with inspection

Step 3: Operational Setup

1. Designate STR Agent: Appoint a responsible party available within Spring Hill city limits
2. Insurance Acquisition: Secure property insurance meeting city requirements
3. Tax Registration: Obtain Hotel-Motel tax certification (T.C.A. §67-4-1401 et seq.)
4. Business Licensing: Secure required business license

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Permits and Licenses

• Short-Term Rental Permit (Primary requirement)
  • Application fee: $150 (owner-occupied) or $300 (non-owner-occupied)
  • Annual renewal fee: $250
• Business License (Spring Hill Business License No. required)
• Hotel-Motel Tax Certification/Registration (T.C.A. §67-4-1401 et seq.)

Required Documentation

1. Property Documentation

   • Proof of ownership or lease authorization
   • Detailed site plan with property boundaries, buildings, parking areas, and guest access
   • Floor plans with bedroom dimensions and layout

2. Operational Plans

   • Emergency evacuation plan
   • Trash management protocol and occupant notification method
   • Cleaning and maintenance procedures
   • Days of operation schedule

3. Insurance and Financial

   • Property insurance proof
   • Documentation supporting "grandfathered" status (if applicable)

4. Agent Designation

   • STR agent contact information (name, address, phone, email)
   • Agent availability confirmation

Posting Requirements

Permit holder must conspicuously post within the unit:

• Owner and agent contact information
• Business license number
• Hotel-Motel tax certifications
• Maximum occupancy limits
• Maximum vehicle parking limits
• Short-term rental permit number

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Property and Occupancy Standards

• Maximum Bedrooms: No more than 5 sleeping rooms for rent
• Occupancy Calculation:
  • 2 persons per bedroom up to 140 square feet
  • For bedrooms over 140 sq ft: area divided by 70 sq ft
• Minimum Stay: No rentals for periods less than 24 hours
• Structure Requirements: Primary or secondary dwelling units only (no garages, barns, or sheds)

Structural and Safety Compliance

• Must meet all applicable zoning, housing, building, health, electrical, gas, plumbing, and life safety codes
• Regular owner inspections required to ensure continued compliance
• Emergency evacuation plan mandatory

Parking and Access

• Adequate On-Site Parking: Required based on guest count, operation frequency, and street parking availability
• Vegetated Area Protection: Parking prohibited on landscaped areas
• Maximum Vehicle Limits: As determined by city during permit review

STR Agent Requirements

• Designation Mandatory: Each STR must have designated agent
• Local Availability: Agent must be reasonably available within Spring Hill area
• Response Requirements: Must appear on premises within 4 hours of city notification for violations
• Duties Include:
  • Handle operational problems
  • Respond to code violations
  • Receive official notices
  • Monitor tax compliance
  • Ensure overall regulatory compliance

Tax and Financial Obligations

• Hotel-Motel Tax: Collect and remit all applicable taxes (T.C.A. §67-4-1401 et seq.)
• Sales Tax: Remit all required sales taxes
• City Taxes: Pay any additional city-required taxes

Operational Restrictions

• Noise Compliance: All occupants must abide by noise restrictions
• Waste Management: Compliance with all waste management provisions
• General Code Adherence: Follow all applicable local ordinances and state laws

Advertising Requirements

• Permit Number Display: Include permit number on all advertising platforms and materials
• Accuracy: All listings must accurately reflect permitted capacity and amenities

Transferability and Ownership Changes

• Non-Transferable: Permits are site-specific and non-transferable to new locations or owners
• Grandfathered Unit Restrictions: Additional transfer limitations apply under T.C.A. Section 13-7-603

Renewal and Suspension

• Annual Renewal Required: $250 renewal fee with inspection
• Suspension Triggers: Non-compliance with permit terms or regulatory violations
• Reinstatement: $250 fee for permit reinstatement after administrative suspension
• Automatic Revocation: Failure to remedy suspension within 60 days

Enforcement and Penalties

Civil Penalties

• Operating Without Permit: $50 per day per violation
• Continued Violations: Each day of non-compliance constitutes separate offense
• Presumption of Violation: Listing property as STR without permit creates rebuttable presumption of violation

Permit Revocation Triggers

• Code Violations: Three documented violations within any 12-month period
• Peace Disruptions: Unreasonable interference with neighboring properties
• False Information: Misrepresentation in permit application
• Failure to Renew: Non-payment of annual fees or non-compliance with inspection requirements

Grandfathered Unit Loss of Status

Units may lose grandfathered protection if:

1. Property sold or transferred
2. Ceases STR use for 30+ continuous months
3. Three or more violations of generally applicable laws

Appeal Process

• Appeals: Decisions reviewable only by writ of certiorari to Chancery Court of Maury County
• Final Authority: City decisions on permit issuance, denial, or revocation are final

Contact Information

Primary Contact

Spring Hill Planning Department

• Address: 8060 Station Hill Dr, Spring Hill, TN 37174
• Phone: 931-486-2252
• Email: planning@springhilltn.org
• Application Submission: Email completed applications and supporting documentation to planning@springhilltn.org

Related Departments

City Recorder's Office (for ordinance copies and records)

• Address: 199 Town Center Parkway, Spring Hill, TN 37174
• Phone: (931) 486-2252 ext. 206, (888) 774-8988 ext. 206, or (888) 774-9088 ext. 206
• Website: Available ordinances at www.springhilltn.org/DocumentCenter/View/15

Important Considerations for Investors

Market Entry Strategy

1. Due Diligence: Thorough property inspection for compliance with building codes
2. Agent Selection: Choose reliable local STR agent with demonstrated responsiveness
3. Insurance Review: Ensure adequate coverage for commercial rental operations
4. Neighbor Relations: Establish good relationships with adjacent property owners to minimize complaints

Ongoing Compliance

• Regular Inspections: Proactive property maintenance to prevent violations
• Agent Management: Maintain clear communication and performance expectations
• Tax Compliance: Timely remittance of all required taxes
• Documentation: Keep detailed records of all transactions and compliance activities

Financial Planning

• Permit Costs: Initial application fees ($150-$300) plus annual renewal ($250)
• Compliance Costs: Potential inspection and enforcement fees
• Tax Obligations: Hotel-motel tax collection and remittance requirements
• Insurance Requirements: Commercial property insurance premiums

Legal Considerations

• Zoning Compliance: Verify STR use is permitted under current zoning
• HOA Restrictions: Review any homeowner association covenants that may restrict STR operations
• Tennessee State Law: Comply with state-level regulations (T.C.A. Title 13, Chapter 7, Part 6)

Source Links

1. Primary Ordinance: Spring Hill Short-Term Rental Ordinance 24-
2. Application Form: Short-Term Rental Permit Application
3. Municipal Ordinances Index: City Ordinances Database

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the provided ordinance and application documents as of 2024. Investors should verify current regulations and consult with local legal counsel before making investment decisions. Regulations may be amended, and local interpretations may vary.