Memphis Short-Term Rental License Questions

[Matt Rutter]

Hi Everyone - we have a MTR in Memphis TN and are looking for clarification / advice on the rental license from others who have MTR in the area.

I see that the Memphis requires a STR permit, but they define a STR as "rented out fully or partially for a fee for a period of less than 30 consecutive days" which doesn't apply to MTR for 30+ days. Since we will be renting for 30 day minimums through our property management company we fall outside of that scope. Am I thinking about this the right way?

It also looks like this regulation is not applicable to properties used as STR rentals prior to July 1, 2023. Does this only apply to properties that previously have a license or any property before that date can continue? ie. It's only after July 1 that you need to apply for a license.

Additionally, if we have friends or family that want to use our MTR between bookings does this now put us in STR territory?

I'm not trying to find loop holes and want to operate "above board," but some of the language is slightly confusing as to what would or wouldn't apply here. Yes, I suppose it would be easier to file for the inspection & application to cover our bases, but it looks like the initial application rate is $300 so I guess we're ultimately trying to determine what the best course of action is given our current situation.

Any advice would be appreciated.