Memphis, TN, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Memphis city officials are under pressure to regulate short-term rentals in response to rising violence linked to these properties. Recent data shows multiple shootings and fatalities associated with vacation rentals like Airbnb. New regulations require rental operators to obtain permits with fees, adhere to safety guidelines, and address community safety concerns. Efforts by Airbnb have been made to curb disruptive gatherings, but local leaders remain vigilant as the city evaluates the impact of short-term rentals on neighborhood safety.
Memphis is experiencing heightened scrutiny over short-term rentals, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, in light of rising violence and new regulatory measures. City officials are working to create a balance between the rights of property owners and the safety of neighborhoods as community concerns are mounting following multiple incidents linked to such rentals.
Recent data indicates that police in Memphis reported over half a dozen shootings at vacation rentals over the past two years, resulting in four fatalities. This includes a tragic incident in July, where a person was killed during a graduation party at an Airbnb in the Cooper-Young neighborhood. The majority of these violent occurrences involved large gatherings, leading to intensified scrutiny from city leaders and residents alike.
In response to the growing issues associated with short-term rentals, Memphis City Council enacted a new ordinance in 2023, which requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a permit. The initial permit fee is set at $300, with annual renewals costing $150. In addition to these fees, operators must adhere to guidelines that emphasize safety, insurance, and responsible management of their properties.
Local governments are also taking steps to control the nature of events that can occur in residential areas. For instance, Germantown has prohibited the charging of admission for events in residential neighborhoods due to complaints surrounding commercial gatherings. These legal changes aim to combat the rise in disruptive activities associated with the surge of short-term rentals.
Airbnb has taken measures to address concerns of violent gatherings by implementing an anti-party system, which prevented 160 bookings in Memphis around Memorial Day and Fourth of July. The system assesses various factors, including the proximity of the guest’s home to the rental property and the timing of the booking. Since 2020, Airbnb claims that they have reduced the incidence of parties throughout the U.S. by 50%, and only 0.06% of reservations in 2024 led to party reports.
Despite these efforts, Memphis city leaders recognize that short-term rentals pose challenges that could negatively impact neighborhoods. Approximately 70 permits for short-term rentals have been issued, with no reported revocations. New rental property owners are required to comply with regulations, whereas existing rentals are typically grandfathered in under prior rules, prompting debate among residents concerned about the potential rise in crime due to the influx of short-term rentals.
Airbnb also stresses its commitment to community collaboration and safety by introducing a Neighborhood Support Line. This initiative allows community members to report issues such as disruptive parties, further enhancing the platform’s commitment to neighborly conduct.
Overall, as Memphis grapples with the implications of short-term rentals amid rising violence and new regulations, it is clear that the well-being of neighborhoods remains a top priority for city officials and community members.
FAQ
What are the new regulations for short-term rentals in Memphis?
Memphis City Council passed a short-term rental ordinance requiring operators to obtain a permit, pay an initial fee of $300, and an annual renewal fee of $150. Operators must also follow safety and management guidelines.
What issues have been reported with short-term rentals?
There have been multiple reports of violence associated with short-term rentals, including shootings and disruptive gatherings, which have raised concerns among community members about rising crime.
How is Airbnb addressing the problem of parties at rentals?
Airbnb has introduced an anti-party system that screens bookings to deter large gatherings, claiming to have reduced party incidence in the U.S. by 50% since 2020.
Are there any limits on events in residential areas?
In Germantown, a law has been enacted prohibiting the charging of admission for events in residential neighborhoods due to complaints regarding commercial gatherings.
How many permits for short-term rentals have been issued in Memphis?
Approximately 70 permits for short-term rentals have been issued in Memphis, with no revocations reported.
Key Features of Short-Term Rental Regulations in Memphis
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Permit Fee | $300 |
| Annual Renewal Fee | $150 |
| Safety Guidelines | Mandatory for operators |
| Permit Requirement | Required for all operators |
| Party House Incidents | Over half a dozen shootings reported |
| Community Concern | Residents worried about rising crime |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Midtown Memphis Sees Violence at Airbnb Gathering
Taylor Middleton’s Inspiring Journey in NYC Real Estate
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Short-Term Rentals Regulations
- Wikipedia: Airbnb
- WREG: Airbnb’s Anti-Party Measures
- Google Search: Memphis short-term rentals
- WREG: Short-Term Rentals and Safety Concerns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vacation Rental
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
