Short-Term Rentals in Salem: Dynamic FAQ

Effective April 15, 2019, a new set of regulations are in place governing short-term rentals (i.e. Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) in the City of Salem, Massachusetts. Using this site, you can find out if your property can be used for a short-term rental and what kinds of restrictions, registration, or other requirements you might have in order to do so.

All short-term rentals must receive a Certificate of Fitness from the Salem Health Department on an annual basis. Additionally, the Code limits all dwelling units to no more than three unrelated persons. Violations of the Code could result in the disqualification of the unit from short-term rental use and fines against the owner.

This FAQ is intended to be used as a guide only and does not constitute the full legal requirements for short-term rentals in Salem. Consult the City Ordinances for all requirements and contact the City with your questions.

What all short-term rental owners in Salem need:

1. Certificate of Fitness (annually).
2. Register with City by filing your listing(s) and Community Information Card.
3. Registration with MassDOR for room excise tax filing.
 
What eligible pre-existing non-owner occupied short-term rental owners also need:

1. Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
2. Register for non-owner occupied trash fee with Engineering Department.
 
Important Links

Register for your Certificate of Fitness inspection: https://www.salem.com/mayors-office/pages/residential-rental-inspections

Register your Short-Term https://salemma.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1085/record-types/6606

Read the Short-Term Rental Ordinance: https://library.municode.com/ma/salem/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIIICOOR_CH15SHRMRERE

Apply for a Special Permit from the ZBA: https://www.salem.com/zoning-board-appeals

Register for the trash fee: https://www.salem.com/recycling-and-trash/pages/trash-fee-forms-information

MassDOR information about the room excise tax: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/room-occupancy-excise-tax

Register with MassDOR to pay your room excise tax: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/register-your-business-with-masstaxconnect

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