Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Lewisburg, TN?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Lewisburg, TN, but with significant restrictions. The city specifically regulates Bed and Breakfast Home Residences through its zoning ordinances. These operations are permitted as special exceptions in certain zoning districts, subject to strict operational and safety requirements.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Lewisburg

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

Short-term rentals in Lewisburg are specifically regulated as "Bed and Breakfast Home Residences." Before proceeding, ensure your property:

• Is located in an appropriate zoning district that allows Bed and Breakfast operations
• Is a pre-existing single-family residence
• Meets all bulk and setback requirements of the applicable zoning district

Step 2: Apply for Conditional Use Permit (Special Exception)

Bed and Breakfast operations require approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals through the Conditional Use Permit process outlined in Section 7.060 of the zoning ordinance.

Application Process:

1. File application with Board of Zoning Appeals
2. Provide site plan and intended use details
3. Submit names of property owners and existing land uses within 200 feet
4. Pay application fees as required
5. Attend public hearing before the Board

Step 3: Obtain Building Permits

All necessary federal and state permits must be obtained prior to any building permit being granted by the City Building Inspector.

Step 4: Final Inspections and Certificate of Occupancy

• The Building Inspector must inspect the property and issue a Certificate of Occupancy
• This certificate confirms the property conforms with all applicable zoning provisions
• Properties cannot be used until this certificate is issued

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Building and Zoning Permits

• Building Permit Application - Written application to Building Inspector
• Certificate of Occupancy - Required before operation begins
• Building Permits - Must obtain all necessary federal and state permits first
• Fee Schedule - Established by Lewisburg City Council (contact Building Inspector for current fees)

Special Exception Requirements

Site Plan Submission:

• Property location and intended uses
• Property owner names
• Existing land uses within 200 feet of property
• Additional materials as required by Board

Safety and Compliance Documents

• Evacuation Plan - Must be approved prior to building permit issuance
• Smoke Detector Installation - Required in each sleeping room
• Fire Extinguisher - 10 pounds or larger, easily accessible on each floor
• Tennessee Department of Health Food Server's License - Required if food is prepared, cooked, or served for compensation

State and Federal Requirements

• All applicable state and federal permits must be secured before local permits
• Compliance with Tennessee health and safety regulations
• Property must meet all state requirements for the specific use type

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City of Lewisburg Specific Regulations (Article VII, Section 7.061.11)

Operational Requirements:

• Must be established only within pre-existing single-family residences
• Must be operated solely by family members residing in the residence
• Only breakfast may be provided, served only to guests taking lodging
• No food preparation or cooking for guests in any bedroom made available for rent
• Rooms used for sleeping must be part of the primary residential structure (not specifically constructed or remodeled for rental purposes)

Signage Limitations:

• Single on-premises sign only
• Maximum 8 square feet in size
• Must be located at least 15 feet from street right-of-way line

Parking Requirements:

• One (1) off-street parking space for each room rented
• Plus required two (2) spaces for the single-family residence
• All spaces must be screened from view from adjoining property
• Cannot be located within any required front yard

Structural Modifications:

• Minimal outward modifications only
• Must be compatible with neighborhood character
• Must comply with zoning district intent

Safety Requirements:

• Smoke detector in each sleeping room
• Fire extinguisher (10 pounds or larger) on each floor
• Approved evacuation plan
• Fire Department approval for safety

County-Level Regulations

Marshall County - The provided documents focus primarily on city-level regulations. County-level regulations may apply for properties outside city limits but within the county.

State-Level Regulations (Tennessee)

Tennessee Code Annotated Requirements:

• Compliance with Tennessee health regulations
• Food service licensing requirements (if applicable)
• State fire safety codes
• Building codes as adopted by the state

Contact Information for Local Authority

City Building Inspector (Primary Authority)

Address: Lewisburg Municipal Building
Phone: (Contact City Hall for current Building Inspector contact information)
Email: Available through City Hall
Website: lewisburgtn.gov

Lewisburg Municipal Offices

Main Office:

• Phone: (Contact City Hall for current number)
• Address: Lewisburg Municipal Building
• Website: lewisburgtn.gov

Board of Zoning Appeals

Contact: Through City Building Inspector or Municipal Planning Department
Public Hearings: Held as needed, published with adequate public notice

Tennessee Department of Health

Required for Food Service Licensing:

• Phone: Contact state health department for local office information
• Website: tn.gov/health

Links to Source Pages

1. Lewisburg Zoning Ordinance - Article VII (Administration and Enforcement): lewisburgtn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Article_VII.pdf

2. Lewisburg Municipal Code: www.mtas.tennessee.edu/system/files/codes/combined/Lewisburg-code.pdf

3. Lewisburg City Government Website: lewisburgtn.gov

4. Airbnb Guidelines Document (2023): 02f0a56ef46d93f03c90-22ac5f107621879d5667e0d7ed595bdb.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/sites/11208/uploads/62602/AirbnbGuidelines20230131-5024-1nt1vl9.docx

Important Notes for Investors:

• The city specifically regulates "Bed and Breakfast" operations rather than general short-term rentals
• Properties must be owner-occupied and operated by family members
• Commercial STR operations that don't meet these criteria may not be permitted
• Always verify current zoning requirements with the Building Inspector before purchasing or developing property for STR purposes
• Regulations may have been updated since these documents were published - confirm current requirements with local authorities

This guide is based on the provided documents and regulations current as of the document dates. Always verify current requirements with local authorities before proceeding with any STR development or operation.