Somerville
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Somerville
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STR Regulations for Somerville
Somerville Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations Guide
- Overview
- Short-term rentals ARE allowed in Somerville, with specific regulations and requirements
- Effective date: January 1, 2020 (updated registration requirements as of April 1, 2023)
- Eligibility Requirements
- The rental must be in the operator's primary residence
- You can only rent out: a) Up to 3 bedrooms if you are present during the rental b) Entire unit for up to 90 days per year if you are not present
- Registration Process
- All short-term rentals MUST register with the city
- Registration deadline:
- For rentals existing as of January 26, 2023: Apply by June 30, 2023
- New rentals: Must register prior to operation
- Annual registration fee: $100
- Apply through the Citizenserve portal
- Specific Regulations
- Only one group can be hosted at a time
- Maximum occupancy:
- Up to 10 people total
- Maximum of 2 people per bedroom
- Cannot rent individual rooms/beds separately
- Only one listing allowed per residential unit across platforms
- Required Documentation
- Proof of primary residence
- Property owner approval (if you're a renter)
- General liability insurance
- Local contact information for emergencies
- Restrictions
- Not allowed in:
- Inclusionary housing units
- Below-market-rate units
- Units with income restrictions
- Compliance Requirements
- Must collect and remit 6% transient occupancy tax
- Post required information inside rental:
- Trash/recycling instructions
- Parking regulations
- Noise ordinance
- Emergency contact information
- Contact Information
- Email: isdstr@somervillema.gov
- Inspectional Services Department (ISD)
- Relevant Links
- Short-Term Rentals Ordinance: https://www.somervillema.gov/sites/default/files/short-term-rental-ordinance.pdf
- Short-Term Rental Application Guide: https://www.somervillema.gov/sites/default/files/short-term-rental-application-guide.pdf
Disclaimer: Regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with the Somerville Inspectional Services Department.
Photos of Somerville
Overview of Somerville
Somerville, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city located just 2.5 miles northwest of downtown Boston. With a population of approximately 81,000 residents, it is one of the most densely populated municipalities in New England. Somerville's proximity to Boston makes it an attractive location for short-term rentals, offering convenient access to the amenities and opportunities of a major urban center while maintaining its unique local charm.
Somerville boasts various landmarks and attractions that enhance its appeal. The city's historic Davis Square (https://davissquare.org/) is a lively hub known for its eclectic array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. One of the notable attractions in the area is the Somerville Theatre, which regularly hosts film screenings and live performances. Moreover, the picturesque Six Hills Park (https://www.somervillema.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation) offers green space for outdoor activities.
Another significant landmark is the Brickbottom Artists Building (http://www.brickbottom.org/), a vibrant artists' community that hosts annual open studios and various art-related events. For history enthusiasts, the Somerville Museum (https://somervillemuseum.org/) provides intriguing insights into the city's cultural and historical heritage.
Additionally, the city is known for its culinary diversity, with Union Square (https://unionsquaremain.org/) being a hotspot for foodies, offering a variety of international cuisines and the popular Somerville Winter Farmers Market (https://www.somwintermarket.org/).
Overall, Somerville's rich cultural scene, strategic location near Boston, and unique local attractions make it an attractive option for short-term rentals.