Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Massena, NY?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Massena, NY. However, it is important to understand that the Village of Massena treats short-term rentals differently from traditional long-term rentals. According to Chapter 291 of the Village Code, units utilized as Airbnb, VRBO, or other forms of short-term rental are explicitly excluded from the rental property registration requirements that apply to traditional rental properties.

This exclusion means that while traditional rental properties must register annually with the Village and comply with inspection requirements for buildings with three or more dwelling units, short-term rental properties are not subject to these same registration and inspection mandates under the current Village code.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Massena

Initial Steps

1. Property Selection: Choose a property located within Massena's boundaries (both Village and Town jurisdictions)
2. Zoning Compliance: Verify that short-term rental use is permitted in your property's zoning district
3. Business Planning: Develop a business plan including projected revenue, operational costs, and target market

Operational Considerations

• Listing Platforms: Register with popular platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, or other short-term rental platforms
• Marketing: Develop marketing materials highlighting local attractions and amenities
• Guest Services: Establish clear check-in procedures, house rules, and guest communication protocols
• Maintenance: Implement regular cleaning and maintenance schedules between guests

Financial Planning

• Tax Implications: Consult with local tax professionals regarding sales tax requirements and income tax obligations
• Insurance: Obtain appropriate business liability insurance and property insurance
• Banking: Establish separate business banking accounts for STR operations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Current Regulatory Status

Based on the available information from Village meeting minutes, there are no specific permits, licenses, or registration requirements currently mandated for short-term rental properties in Massena, NY. This is evidenced by the explicit exclusion of STR units from the Village's rental property registration requirements.

Recommended Documentation

While not required, STR operators should maintain:

• Property Insurance: Comprehensive liability and property coverage
• Business License: General business registration (if applicable)
• Sales Tax Registration: New York State sales tax registration (if required)
• Fire Safety Documentation: Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector certifications
• Emergency Contact Information: Posted prominently for guests

Building Code Compliance

Properties must comply with New York State Uniform Fire Prevention, Building Code and Property Maintenance Code requirements, including:

• Functional smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Adequate egress routes
• Electrical and heating system safety
• Structural soundness

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Village of Massena Regulations

Rental Property Registration (Chapter 291)

• Exemption: Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) are explicitly excluded from rental property registration requirements
• Traditional Rentals Only: The registration, inspection, and certification requirements apply only to traditional long-term rental properties
• No Special STR Requirements: Currently, there are no Village-specific regulations mandating registration, permits, or inspections for short-term rental properties

Cannabis Regulations (Chapter 125)

• While not directly related to STRs, the Village has opted out of on-site cannabis consumption establishments
• STR operators should be aware that smoking cannabis in STR properties may be subject to local restrictions

St. Lawrence County Regulations

No specific county-level short-term rental regulations were identified in the provided content.

New York State Regulations

Given the absence of specific city regulations, New York State laws apply to short-term rental operations:

General Business Requirements

• Sales Tax: STR operators may be required to collect and remit New York State sales tax
• Hotel Room Occupancy Tax: Local bed taxes may apply (check with St. Lawrence County)
• Business Registration: General business registration requirements may apply
• Fire Safety: Compliance with New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code

Safety and Health Requirements

• Building Safety: Compliance with NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code
• Health Regulations: Compliance with local health department requirements
• Accessibility: Potential ADA compliance requirements

Contact Information for Local Authority

Village of Massena

• Phone: (315) 769-8625
• Fax: (315) 769-0257
• Address: 60 Main Street, Town Hall, Massena, NY 13662
• Website: massena.us

Town of Massena

• Phone: (315) 769-3588
• Fax: (315) 769-0578
• Address: 60 Main Street, Town Hall, Massena, NY 13662
• Website: massena.us

Code Enforcement

The Village Code Enforcement Office handles building codes and rental property regulations:

• Contact: Code Enforcement Office (Village)
• Related to: Building permits, rental certificates for traditional rentals (not STRs)

St. Lawrence County

For county-level permits and regulations:

• Website: stlawco.org
• Contact: County offices for building permits and tax information

Links to Source Pages

1. Village of Massena Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes - October 17, 2023 - Contains Chapter 291 Rental Property Registration details and STR exclusion
2. Massena Town News Flash - March 31, 2025 - References short-term rental regulations webinar attendance

Important Notes for STR Investors

Regulatory Landscape

• Limited Local Restrictions: Currently, Massena has not implemented specific short-term rental regulations
• Traditional Rental Focus: Local regulations focus primarily on traditional long-term rental properties
• Evolving Environment: The mention of STR regulations in supervisor webinars suggests potential future regulatory development

Risk Considerations

• Future Regulations: STR regulations could be implemented in the future, affecting operations
• Tax Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable tax requirements
• Insurance Gaps: Verify adequate coverage for STR operations
• Building Code Compliance: Ensure all properties meet safety standards

Best Practices

• Good Neighbor Relations: Maintain positive relationships with neighbors
• Property Standards: Maintain high property standards to avoid complaints
• Regulatory Monitoring: Stay informed about potential future regulations
• Professional Consultation: Work with local attorneys and accountants familiar with STR regulations

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the available information from the provided sources. STR regulations can change frequently, and investors should verify current requirements with local authorities before making investment decisions.