Tennessee Rules for Airbnb Sublets and Short-Term Rentals

Renters across Tennessee are increasingly interested in listing their units on platforms like Airbnb or allowing guests for short stays. While sharing your home can be appealing, Tennessee sets out clear rules for short-term rentals. This guide explains your rights and what the law expects—so you can avoid eviction, lease violations, or fines.

Can You Use Your Rental Unit for Airbnb or Short-Term Sublets?

Short-term rentals (STRs) in Tennessee—like renting your apartment or room on Airbnb or VRBO for less than 30 days—are governed by both state law and many local city ordinances. Importantly, your lease agreement usually states whether subletting or short-term listings are allowed. If your lease forbids subletting or requires written landlord permission, advertising your unit as a short-term rental may break your lease and put you at risk for eviction.

• Always check your rental agreement before listing or hosting guests
• Local city rules (such as those in Nashville or Memphis) may require a permit for STRs
• The Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) regulates most rentals; counties with over 75,000 residents must follow it

Key State Legislation and Official Authority

The Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (T.C.A. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.) covers many aspects of rental living, including subletting and lease violations. The main body overseeing residential rental disputes in Tennessee is Tennessee Real Estate Commission, while some issues may be heard in your local General Sessions Court.^[1]

What Happens if You List Your Rental on Airbnb?

If you sublet or list your place for short-term stays without the landlord’s okay, you can face serious consequences, including:

• Eviction for violating your lease
• Pays fines or damages (if guests cause harm)
• Loss of access to local permits or STR registration

You may also need to remove your listing, even after bookings have been made.

If you are ever unsure, seek your landlord’s written permission before subletting—even for just a few days.

Required Forms: Subletting or Licensure

While there is no statewide “short-term rental form,” Tennessee renters may encounter these official forms and steps:

• Change/Add Tenant or Sublet Agreement (No official state form—often a custom written document)
  When requesting permission to sublet, provide a written letter or form to your landlord outlining the details (who, when, duration, reason). Keep copies for your records.
• Short-Term Rental Permit Application (varies by city)
  Example: Nashville requires a Short Term Rental Property Permit, submitted through Metro Nashville Codes.
  Practical example: If you live in Nashville, you must apply and receive this permit before listing your rental for periods under 30 days. Violating this requirement exposes you to city fines and legal disputes with your landlord.

Before applying for a permit, always review your lease and communicate with your landlord.

How to Handle a Dispute or Complaint

If your landlord threatens eviction due to an Airbnb listing, or if you need to correct a lease violation:

• Read your lease carefully to confirm the terms around subletting or "additional occupants"
• Communicate with your landlord in writing to resolve misunderstandings
• If served an eviction notice, you may respond or attend a hearing at your local General Sessions Court

FAQ: Airbnb Sublets and Shared Housing in Tennessee

1. Can I list my rental on Airbnb if my lease says nothing about subletting?
   If your lease is silent, you should still seek written approval from your landlord. Many leases contain general prohibitions against subletting or business use, so getting permission protects you from possible eviction.
2. Do I need to register or get a license for short-term rentals?
   In many Tennessee cities, including Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, you must apply for a Short Term Rental Property Permit if you offer rentals for less than 30 days.
3. What penalties could I face for an unauthorized Airbnb sublet?
   You risk eviction, financial penalties, or even being sued for damages if your guest causes problems. Your city may fine you for unregistered short-term rentals.
4. What should I do if I get an eviction notice for subletting?
   You have the right to contest the notice at a General Sessions Court hearing. Bring all communications, your lease, and any permits to prove you acted in good faith.
5. Who handles complaints or disputes about Airbnb sublets in Tennessee?
   The Tennessee Real Estate Commission handles general regulatory issues, while eviction and lease violations are resolved by your local General Sessions Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

• Always review your lease and talk with your landlord before listing any short-term rental.
• Check if your city requires a Short-Term Rental Property Permit—many do.
• Keep written records to protect your rights in any dispute or hearing.

Carefully following these steps can help you avoid unexpected tenancy problems while using Airbnb or similar platforms in Tennessee.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Real Estate Commission – Regulations and rental issues
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts – Handles eviction and lease disputes
• Statewide Tenant and Landlord Support (TN Department of Human Services)
• Nashville Short Term Rental Permit.
• Consider contacting Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands for free tenant advice.

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1. See: Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (T.C.A. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.)
2. State landlord-tenant guidance: Tenant and Landlord Resources – Department of Human Services
3. Local STR permitting: Nashville Short Term Rentals

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