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Boston short-term rental rules (2026)

Massachusetts · United States
Restricted
These rules apply inside Boston city limits only. Properties outside them follow county or neighboring-town rules.
Rules last checked  ·  Region: US

Market overview

RESTRICTEDStays under 28 nights

Allowed, with material limits.

Among the most restrictive STR regimes in the U.S.; effectively eliminates investor-owned STRs.

Why do places restrict rentals?

Property eligibility: Not assessed A market overview can't tell whether a specific home qualifies (zoning, permits, HOA).

License
Required
Primary residence
Required
Tax on stays
14.95%
total, on our records
Night cap
None

Work for Boston? Claim this page to confirm or correct the rules.

ALLOWEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Stays of 28 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals.

Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

Not legal advice. The legal framework, notes and sources are in the full report.

Browse all 15 STR regulations in Massachusetts → Browse all 944 STR regulations in United States →

The full Boston rules

17 rules on record for Boston, 11 of them from government sources. Every rule traced to its official source. How we research

Free account includes full rules for one place, with change alerts. Full report $39 · See a sample. For a lender or insurer: rules summary for one address, $29, free with the report. Already have an account? Sign in.

Source: City of Boston Inspectional Services (ISD) Housing Division (onlinepermitsandlicenses.boston.gov, official), checked 6 Nov 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Boston?

Yes, with material limits. Among the most restrictive STR regimes in the U.S.; effectively eliminates investor-owned STRs.

Do you need a permit for a short-term rental in Boston?

Yes, a license or registration is required.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Boston?

14.95% in total on stays, on our records.

Is there a limit on rental nights in Boston?

No night cap is on record.

Can I rent for longer stays in Boston?

Stays of 28 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals. Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

When were the Boston rules last checked?

We last checked the short-term rental rules for Boston on 6 Nov 2026.

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