Can I Airbnb in Pigeon Forge, TN? (2026)

Short-term rentals are legal and widespread in Pigeon Forge: 'tourist residences' are a permitted use in the R-2 high-density residential district and commercial districts, requiring city ($15) and Sevier County business licenses plus lodging-tax registration rather than an STR-specific permit. The biggest restriction is the R-1 low-density residential district, where STRs are banned unless the property was operating (and remitting taxes) on or before August 13, 2018 and holds a Short-Term Rental Unit Operating Permit ($300 application, $100 annual renewal, max 12 occupants); the city is also rolling out mandatory annual fire-safety inspections for all STRs (first reading approved April 2025). Always confirm current requirements with the city before operating.

What’s required: a Short-Term Rental Unit Operating Permit ($300) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew annual.