Can I Airbnb in Knoxville, TN? (2026)

Knoxville requires a Short-Term Rental Unit Operating Permit before advertising or operating any rental of under 30 days. In residentially zoned districts, STRs are allowed only at the owner's principal residence (Type 1 Permit, $70, natural persons only); in non-residential districts that allow residential use, non-owner-occupied STRs are allowed via a Type 2 Permit ($120, max 2 per person or entity citywide). Permits renew annually for $50, there is no night cap, and lodging is taxed at a combined 18.25% (9.25% sales tax + 4% city occupancy tax + 5% county occupancy tax), largely platform-collected.

What’s required: a Short-Term Rental Unit Permit (Type 1 or Type 2 Operating Permit) ($70) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew annual.