Boston, Massachusetts Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations Boston, Massachusetts?

Boston's short-term rental market has undergone significant regulatory changes in recent years, creating a structured framework that both protects the city's housing market and allows for responsible hosting. If you're considering entering the short-term rental space in Boston, understanding these regulations is crucial to operating legally and successfully. Boston defines short-term rentals as residential units rented for less than 28 consecutive days, and the city has implemented some of the nation's strictest rules governing this industry.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Boston, Massachusetts

Starting a short-term rental business in Boston requires careful attention to the city's specific regulations. Boston's Short-Term Rental (STR) program, which went into full effect in late 2019, has transformed the landscape for hosts and significantly reduced the number of available listings in the city.

Property Eligibility Requirements

The cornerstone of Boston's STR regulations is the owner-occupancy requirement. Short-term rentals are only permitted in:

• Owner-occupied condominiums
• Owner-occupied single-family homes
• Owner-occupied two-family and three-family buildings (where the owner must own all units)

This effectively eliminates investor-owned properties from the short-term rental market. Even if you're a renter with your landlord's permission, you cannot legally operate a short-term rental in Boston. This restriction has forced many operators out of business, particularly those who were renting out investment properties or were tenants themselves.

Registration Process

All short-term rental operators in Boston must register with the city annually. The registration process includes:

1. Completing the Short-Term Rental Registration application
2. Providing proof of primary residence (you must live in the property for at least nine months of the year)
3. Paying the applicable registration fee
4. Obtaining a business certificate if required

Once approved, you'll receive a registration number that must be displayed on all your online listings. Platforms like Airbnb now require this registration number and will remove listings that don't comply.

Types of Short-Term Rentals Allowed

Boston recognizes three categories of short-term rentals:

1. Home Share Units: Rental of an operator's entire primary residence for an unlimited number of nights per year
2. Limited Share Units: Rental of a bedroom or shared space within the operator's primary residence while the owner is present, limited to 60 nights per year
3. Owner-Adjacent Units: Rental of a complete dwelling unit within a two- or three-family building, with the owner occupying at least one of the remaining units

Each category has specific requirements and limitations, so it's important to determine which classification your property falls under.

Tax and Fee Considerations

Short-term rental operators in Boston must collect and remit occupancy taxes similar to traditional lodging establishments. You'll need to understand the current tax rates and establish a system for collecting and remitting these taxes properly to avoid penalties.

While Boston's regulations have created a more restrictive environment for short-term rentals, they also provide clarity and structure for those who qualify to operate legally. By understanding and following these rules, eligible hosts can build a successful and compliant short-term rental business while contributing positively to Boston's housing ecosystem and tourism economy.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston's short-term rental licensing system is comprehensive and strictly enforced, requiring hosts to navigate a multi-step process before legally listing their property. Understanding these requirements is essential for anyone looking to operate in this market as of May 2025.

Registration Types and Eligibility

Boston recognizes three distinct categories of short-term rentals, each with specific requirements:

1. Home Share Units: These allow you to rent your entire primary residence with an annual registration fee of $200. This option provides the most flexibility, allowing rentals for up to 365 nights per year.
2. Limited Share Units: This permit allows you to rent a portion of your primary residence while you remain present during the guest's stay. The annual registration fee is also $200, and you're limited to 120 nights of rental per year.
3. Owner-Adjacent Units: This applies to complete dwelling units within a two- or three-family building where you own the entire building and occupy at least one unit as your primary residence. The annual registration fee is $200.

Required Documentation

To register your short-term rental in Boston, you'll need to provide:

1. Proof of primary residence (at least two of the following):
2. Proof of residential tax exemption
3. Recent utility bill
4. Voter registration
5. Motor vehicle registration
6. Property deed
7. Driver's license or state-issued ID
8. Proof of property ownership
9. Confirmation that the property meets safety requirements
10. Contact information for emergencies
11. Certification that the property is not subject to affordability covenants or rental assistance
12. Verification that the property has not received three or more violations of city ordinances or state laws within the previous six months

Business Certificate Requirement

In addition to the short-term rental registration, hosts must obtain a business certificate from Boston's City Clerk's Office. This requires:

1. Completing the business certificate form
2. Paying a $65 filing fee
3. Providing a copy of your short-term rental registration number from Inspectional Services

The business certificate is valid for four years and must be renewed using the same form and process.

Application Process

1. First, verify your property's eligibility using Boston's searchable database of properties and their short-term rental eligibility status.
2. Complete the Short-Term Rental Registration application through the city's online portal.
3. Submit all required documentation proving primary residence and property ownership.
4. Pay the $200 annual registration fee.
5. Obtain a business certificate from the City Clerk's Office (additional $65 fee).
6. Display your registration number on all online listings and the certificate prominently within the rental unit.

Where to Submit Applications

You can submit your short-term rental registration application:

1. Online through Boston's Short-Term Rental Registration Portal
2. In person at the Inspectional Services Department at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02118
3. By mail to the same address

For the business certificate, you can apply:

1. In person at the City Clerk's Office at Boston City Hall
2. By mail to the City Clerk's Office

Processing Time

While the city doesn't guarantee a specific timeframe, most applications are processed within 2-4 weeks. This includes time for review of documentation and potential property inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended rental start date.

Renewal Requirements

Short-term rental registrations must be renewed annually, with the registration period running from January 2 through June 30 each year. The renewal process requires:

• Recertification that all information remains accurate
• Payment of the annual fee
• Verification that the property continues to meet all eligibility requirements

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Boston takes enforcement of its short-term rental regulations seriously. Operating without proper registration can result in:

• Fines of up to $300 per day for violations
• Potential monthly penalties of $300 for failure to register by the deadline
• Removal of listings from platforms like Airbnb and VRBO
• Possible revocation of registration for severe or repeated non-compliance
• Retroactive payment of registration fees dating back to 2013 for properties that have never been registered

The city actively monitors listings and investigates complaints through the Inspectional Services Department. For questions or concerns regarding short-term rental regulations, hosts can contact the department at 617-635-1010.

By ensuring full compliance with these licensing requirements, hosts can operate legally in Boston's short-term rental market while avoiding potentially costly penalties and contributing positively to the city's regulated accommodation sector.

Required Documents for Boston, Massachusetts Short-Term Rentals

Successfully registering your short-term rental in Boston requires thorough documentation to verify your eligibility and ensure compliance with city regulations. Each document serves a specific purpose in the registration process, and having them prepared in advance will streamline your application.

Short-Term Rental Registration Application

The foundation of your registration is the application form itself, which must be completed through Boston's Inspectional Services Department. This form captures essential details about your property, your relationship to it, and which type of short-term rental you're registering (Limited Share, Home Share, or Owner-Adjacent). The application can be submitted online through the city's portal or in person at the Inspectional Services Department.

Proof of Primary Residence

To demonstrate that the property is your primary residence (where you live for at least nine months of the year), you must provide at least two of the following documents:

• Proof of residential tax exemption
• Recent utility bill (gas, electric, oil, or water)
• Voter registration
• Motor vehicle registration
• Property deed
• Driver's license or state-issued identification showing your address

These documents verify that you meet the owner-occupancy requirement, which is the cornerstone of Boston's short-term rental regulations.

Proof of Property Ownership

You must submit documentation proving that you own the property being registered. This typically includes:

• A copy of your property deed
• Recent property tax bill
• Mortgage statement
• Other legal documentation confirming ownership

For Owner-Adjacent units in two-family or three-family homes, you'll need to provide proof that you own the entire building, not just your unit.

Business Certificate

All short-term rental operators must obtain a business certificate from Boston's City Clerk's Office. To apply, you'll need:

• The completed business certificate application form
• Your short-term rental registration number from Inspectional Services
• Payment of $35 for Massachusetts residents or $65 for non-residents

This certificate must be renewed every four years and legitimizes your rental operation as a business entity within the city.

Floor Plan

A floor plan of your rental unit showing the location of:

• Smoke detectors
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Emergency exits

This document helps ensure your property meets safety requirements for guests and is often reviewed during inspections.

Liability Insurance Proof

You must maintain liability insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000 for your short-term rental. If you list through platforms like Airbnb that provide host protection insurance, you may be able to use this coverage to satisfy the requirement. You'll need to provide:

• A copy of your insurance policy
• Proof of current coverage
• Documentation showing coverage limits

Certification of Good Standing

You must be in good standing with both the city and state regarding taxes and other obligations. This includes:

• Certificate from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue showing no outstanding tax obligations
• Verification that the property has no outstanding code violations or fines

Zoning Compliance Certification

Your property must comply with Boston's zoning regulations for residential use. You'll need to provide:

• Confirmation that your unit is classified as residential use
• Verification that it's not part of excluded categories such as congregate living complexes, elderly housing, group residences, homeless shelters, orphanages, temporary dwelling structures, or transitional housing

Registration Fee Payment

The annual registration fee for all types of short-term rentals in Boston is $200. Payment must be submitted with your application and is renewed annually during the registration period from January 1 through December 31 (or an alternative twelve-month period as determined by the Commissioner).

Having these documents prepared and organized before beginning the application process will significantly reduce delays and complications in obtaining your short-term rental registration. Remember that all documents must be current and valid at the time of submission, and you may be required to provide additional documentation if requested by the Inspectional Services Department during their review.

Boston, Massachusetts Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental in Boston comes with significant tax obligations that every host must understand and comply with. As of May 2025, Boston has one of the most comprehensive tax structures for short-term rentals in the nation, potentially reaching nearly 18% of your rental income. Here's a breakdown of each tax component and what you can expect to pay.

State Excise Tax

All short-term rentals in Massachusetts are subject to a state excise tax of 5.7% on the total rental amount, including cleaning fees and guest fees. This tax applies to all reservations of 31 nights or shorter and is the foundation of the tax structure for short-term rentals throughout the state.

City of Boston Excise Tax

In addition to the state tax, Boston imposes its own local excise tax of 6.5% on short-term rentals. This is higher than many other Massachusetts municipalities and reflects Boston's status as a major tourist destination with high demand for accommodations.

Convention Center Financing Fee

Properties in Boston are also subject to a 2.75% convention center financing fee. This tax helps fund the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center and applies to short-term rentals throughout the city.

Community Impact Fee

Boston, like other Massachusetts municipalities, can impose a community impact fee of up to 3% on short-term rentals. This fee is designed to offset the impact of short-term rentals on local housing markets and neighborhood character.

Total Tax Burden

When all applicable taxes and fees are combined, short-term rental hosts in Boston can face a total tax rate of up to 17.95% on their rental income. This significant percentage makes tax planning and proper collection essential for maintaining profitability.

Tax Collection and Remittance

Fortunately for hosts, platforms like Airbnb now automatically collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts for bookings made through their platform. However, hosts are still responsible for:

• Registering with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue through MassTaxConnect
• Ensuring proper tax collection for bookings made outside major platforms
• Filing monthly tax returns by the 20th of the following month for any transactions not handled by booking platforms

14-Day Exemption Rule

It's worth noting that if you rent your property for 14 days or less during a calendar year, you may qualify for an exemption from collecting and remitting these taxes. However, you must still register with the Department of Revenue and claim this exemption by January 15 of each year. If you exceed 14 rental days during the year, you'll become responsible for taxes on all rental days, including the first 14.

Minimum Rental Amount

For all types of rental accommodations in Massachusetts, if the total amount of rent is less than $15 per day, no tax is due. However, this threshold is rarely applicable to most short-term rentals in Boston's competitive market.

Tax Deductions for Short-Term Rental Hosts

While the tax burden may seem steep, short-term rental hosts can offset some of this through various tax deductions. Here are key deductible expenses to track:

1. Mortgage Interest and Property Taxes: You can deduct a portion of these costs proportional to the percentage of time your property is used as a rental.
2. Repairs and Maintenance: Expenses for fixing issues like plumbing problems, electrical repairs, or general upkeep are fully deductible when related to the rental business.
3. Utilities: Costs for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable TV can be deducted based on the percentage of use attributable to guests.
4. Cleaning and Laundry Services: The costs of professional cleaning between guest stays and laundry services for linens are fully deductible.
5. Insurance: Both homeowner's insurance and specialized short-term rental insurance policies are deductible expenses.
6. Platform Fees: Commission fees charged by Airbnb, VRBO, and other booking platforms are deductible business expenses.
7. Supplies and Amenities: Items provided for guests such as toiletries, coffee, welcome baskets, and other consumables are deductible.
8. Professional Services: Fees paid to accountants, tax professionals, property managers, or legal advisors can be deducted.
9. Depreciation: You can deduct the decrease in value of your property and furnishings over time.
10. Professional Memberships: Fees for joining industry associations, property management groups, or short-term rental networks can be deducted.

Understanding and properly managing these tax obligations and deductions is crucial for running a profitable short-term rental business in Boston. Many hosts find it beneficial to work with a tax professional who specializes in short-term rentals to ensure compliance and maximize legitimate deductions.

Massachusetts Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While Boston has its own specific regulations for short-term rentals, hosts must also comply with Massachusetts state laws that create an overarching framework for all short-term rental operations throughout the Commonwealth. These state-level requirements work in conjunction with local regulations and must be followed regardless of which municipality your property is located in.

Massachusetts Room Occupancy Excise Law (MROE)

In 2019, Massachusetts enacted the Room Occupancy Excise Law, which established comprehensive regulations for short-term rentals across the state. This legislation brought short-term rentals under the same regulatory umbrella as traditional lodging establishments like hotels and motels, with several key requirements:

State Registration Requirement

All short-term rental operators in Massachusetts must register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue through the MassTaxConnect portal. This registration is separate from any local requirements and is mandatory for all short-term rental properties in the state. Failure to register can result in penalties, interest charges on owed taxes, and potential legal action that could impact your ability to operate.

Liability Insurance Mandate

State law requires all short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1 million. This requirement can be satisfied either through your own insurance policy or through coverage provided by platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. However, you must inform your insurance provider that your property is being used for short-term rentals, as standard homeowner's policies typically don't cover commercial rental activities.

State Tax Collection

Massachusetts imposes a 5.7% state excise tax on all short-term rentals of 31 consecutive days or less. This tax applies to the total rental amount, including any cleaning fees or additional guest charges. While platforms like Airbnb now collect and remit these taxes automatically for bookings made through their services, hosts are responsible for ensuring proper tax collection and remittance for bookings made through other channels.

Definition of Short-Term Rentals

Under state law, a short-term rental is defined as any rental of residential property for periods of 31 consecutive calendar days or less. This definition applies throughout Massachusetts, though it's worth noting that Boston's more restrictive definition (less than 28 days) takes precedence within city limits.

Safety Standards Compliance

All short-term rental properties in Massachusetts must comply with state safety standards, including:

1. Adherence to 105 CMR 410.000 (Minimum Standards of Fitness for Human Habitation)
2. Compliance with 780 CMR (Massachusetts State Building Code)
3. Installation of proper smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
4. Maintenance of fire extinguishers and clearly marked emergency exits

14-Day Exemption Rule

If you rent your property for 14 days or less during a calendar year, you may qualify for an exemption from collecting and remitting taxes. However, you must still register with the Department of Revenue and formally claim this exemption by January 15 each year. If you exceed the 14-day threshold at any point during the year, you become responsible for taxes on all rental days, including the first 14.

Commercial Event Prohibition

Short-term rental properties cannot be used for commercial events during their occupancy as a rental. This restriction helps maintain the residential character of neighborhoods and prevents rentals from functioning as event venues.

Occupancy Limitations

The number of bedrooms made available for short-term rentals within a dwelling unit cannot exceed the number of lawful bedrooms in the property. Additionally, rental units must not exceed reasonable occupancy limits based on the property's size and configuration.

These state-wide regulations create the foundation upon which Boston's more specific local requirements are built. As a Boston short-term rental host, you must comply with both sets of rules, with the more restrictive requirements taking precedence when there's overlap. Understanding and adhering to these state-level regulations is essential for operating legally and avoiding potentially costly penalties or enforcement actions.

Does Boston, Massachusetts Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Boston stands out as one of the most stringent enforcers of short-term rental regulations in the United States, with a robust system of monitoring, fines, and compliance checks that have dramatically reshaped the city's rental landscape. The city's approach to enforcement has been notably aggressive compared to many other major metropolitan areas.

Boston's Inspectional Services Department (ISD) actively monitors short-term rental listings across platforms and has demonstrated a willingness to pursue violations aggressively. Since the regulations went into full effect in late 2019, the city issued approximately 400 fines for violations within just the first few months of enforcement. These penalties aren't merely symbolic-at $300 per day for violations, they quickly accumulate to substantial amounts that make non-compliance financially untenable for most operators.

The city has cited nearly 200 addresses spanning diverse neighborhoods from luxury Seaport apartment towers to modest two-family homes in Roslindale. This widespread enforcement shows that no area of the city is exempt from scrutiny, regardless of property value or neighborhood prestige.

By any objective measure, Boston ranks among the least Airbnb-friendly major cities in the United States. The owner-occupancy requirement alone eliminates the vast majority of investment property rentals that form the backbone of short-term rental markets in more permissive cities. When combined with the registration requirements, annual fees, and active enforcement, Boston has created an environment that prioritizes housing preservation over short-term rental proliferation.

One host on a real estate investment forum expressed their frustration clearly: "I own a two-family in Somerville and was renting out the upstairs unit on Airbnb. I received a cease and desist letter from the city because I wasn't living in the property myself. The fines for non-compliance are steep - up to $300 per day. It's just not worth the risk."

While some hosts do attempt to operate outside the regulatory framework, the consensus among Boston hosts on forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit is that the risks far outweigh the potential rewards. The city's partnership with platforms like Airbnb-which now requires hosts to display city registration numbers-has closed many of the loopholes that previously allowed unregistered listings to operate.

City officials have characterized their enforcement approach as "whack-a-mole," indicating their commitment to persistent and thorough enforcement. Ford Cavallari, chairman of the Association of Downtown Civic Organizations, noted that determined operators might continue seeking ways to operate illegally, but the city appears equally determined to identify and penalize them.

The combination of steep daily fines, platform cooperation with enforcement, and the risk of losing the ability to operate legally has created an environment where most potential hosts have either complied with the restrictive regulations or exited the short-term rental market entirely. For those considering entering Boston's short-term rental market, the message from existing hosts is clear: unless you can fully comply with the city's strict owner-occupancy requirements, Boston is not a viable market for short-term rental operations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Boston, Massachusetts

Starting a short-term rental business in Boston requires careful planning and strict adherence to the city's regulations. The process involves several crucial steps, from determining your property's eligibility to setting up your listing on rental platforms. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process successfully.

Verify Property Eligibility

Before investing time and resources, confirm that your property qualifies under Boston's strict short-term rental regulations. Only owner-occupied properties are eligible, meaning you must use the property as your primary residence for at least nine months of the year. Boston recognizes three types of short-term rentals:

Limited Share Unit: Renting out one or more rooms in your primary residence while you remain present during the guest's stay

Home Share Unit: Renting out your entire primary residence

Owner-Adjacent Unit: If you own a multi-unit property (two-family or three-family building), you can rent out one full unit while residing in another

Tip: Use Boston's searchable database to check if your property is eligible before proceeding with any further steps. This can save you significant time and effort if your property doesn't qualify.

Gather Required Documentation

Collect all necessary documentation to prove your eligibility:

1. Proof of primary residence (at least two of the following): state-issued ID, utility bill, voter registration, motor vehicle registration, property deed
2. Proof of property ownership
3. Floor plan showing safety features
4. Liability insurance documentation showing at least $1,000,000 in coverage

Tip: Create a dedicated folder (both physical and digital) to organize all your documentation. This will streamline both the application process and future renewals.

Apply for Short-Term Rental Registration

Submit your application to the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) either online through Boston's portal or in person at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue. The application requires:

1. Your personal information
2. Property details
3. Selection of rental type (Limited Share, Home Share, or Owner-Adjacent)
4. All supporting documentation
5. Payment of the $200 annual registration fee

Tip: Apply well in advance of your intended rental start date, as processing can take 2-4 weeks. Starting the process early gives you buffer time to address any issues that might arise during the review.

Obtain a Business Certificate

After receiving your short-term rental registration number, apply for a business certificate from Boston's City Clerk's Office. This requires:

1. Completing the business certificate form
2. Providing a copy of your short-term rental registration number
3. Paying the $65 filing fee (valid for four years)

Tip: Consider setting a calendar reminder for business certificate renewal, as failing to renew could result in operating without proper documentation.

Register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue

Create an account on MassTaxConnect to register your short-term rental business with the state. This registration is required to collect and remit state excise taxes.

Tip: Even if you plan to use platforms that automatically collect taxes, this registration is still required by law. Failure to register can result in penalties even if you're not personally collecting taxes.

Set Up Tax Collection Systems

Ensure you have a system in place to collect and remit all applicable taxes:

1. 5.7% state excise tax
2. 6.5% city excise tax
3. 2.75% convention center financing fee
4. Up to 3% community impact fee

Tip: While platforms like Airbnb collect these taxes automatically, have a backup system for bookings through other channels or direct bookings. Also, make sure to contact local authorities to confirm the applicable taxes to your rental.

Prepare Your Property

Ensure your property meets all safety requirements:

1. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
2. Place fire extinguishers in accessible locations
3. Create clearly marked emergency exits
4. Prepare an emergency contact list and evacuation plan

Tip: Consider hiring a professional inspector to verify compliance with all safety regulations before hosting guests. This can help identify potential issues before they become problems during an official inspection.

Create Your Listing

Once you have all registrations and preparations complete, create your listing on your chosen platform(s):

1. Include high-quality photos
2. Write a detailed description
3. Set house rules and policies
4. Display your short-term rental registration number prominently

Tip: Be transparent about Boston's residential neighborhoods in your listing. Highlight local attractions, public transportation options, and neighborhood amenities to attract guests looking for an authentic Boston experience.

Set Up a Record-Keeping System

Maintain detailed records of:

1. All guest stays
2. Tax collections and remittances
3. Business expenses for tax deduction purposes
4. Maintenance and cleaning schedules

Tip: Consider using specialized short-term rental management software to streamline record-keeping, automate guest communications, and simplify tax reporting.

Develop a Maintenance and Cleaning Plan

Create a reliable system for property maintenance and cleaning:

1. Establish relationships with cleaning services
2. Create checklists for turnover cleaning
3. Schedule regular maintenance inspections
4. Plan for emergency repairs

Tip: Build a network of reliable service providers before you start hosting. Having trusted cleaners, handymen, and emergency contacts ready will help you respond quickly to any issues that arise.

Starting a short-term rental business in Boston requires significant preparation and ongoing compliance with regulations, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it can be a rewarding venture. Remember that the city actively enforces its regulations, so maintaining compliance should be your top priority throughout your operation.

Who to Contact in Boston, Massachusetts about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

Navigating Boston's complex short-term rental regulations often requires direct communication with city officials and departments. Knowing exactly who to contact can save you significant time and frustration when seeking clarification or assistance with your short-term rental business. Here are the key contacts and resources available to Boston short-term rental operators.

Inspectional Services Department (ISD)

The Inspectional Services Department is the primary authority overseeing short-term rental regulations in Boston. For general inquiries about the Short-Term Rental program, registration requirements, or compliance issues:

1. Phone: 617-635-5300
2. Email: isd@boston.gov
3. Address: 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02118

For specific questions about short-term rental applications or permit status:

1. Email: ISDpermits@boston.gov
2. Phone: 617-961-3424

Short-Term Rentals and Special Initiatives Team

For specialized assistance with short-term rental regulations and compliance:

1. Regina Hanson, Assistant Director: 617-961-3309, regina.hanson@boston.gov
2. Melvin Johnson, Inspector: 617-961-3318, melvin.johnson@boston.gov

City Clerk's Office

For business certificate applications and renewals, which are required for all short-term rental operators:

1. Phone: 617-635-4600
2. Address: Boston City Hall, Room 601, Boston, MA 02201

Planning & Zoning Division

For questions about zoning regulations affecting short-term rentals:

1. Phone: 617-918-4472
2. Email: planningzoningqs@boston.gov

When contacting any of these departments or joining these communities, be prepared with specific questions and your property details. Many hosts report that maintaining professional relationships with city officials and fellow hosts has been invaluable in successfully operating their short-term rentals in Boston's highly regulated environment.

Remember that regulations can change, so it's advisable to periodically check with these resources to ensure your operation remains compliant with the latest requirements. The city's enforcement is active and consistent, making ongoing communication with official channels a necessary part of running a successful short-term rental business in Boston.