Sevier County STR Permit Regulations STR (Short Term Rentals)Smoky Mountains

May 15, 2024

Sevier County of Tennessee, which encompasses Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Kodak, Wears Valley and bits of surrounding areas, is among the biggest vacation rental industries of the Smoky Mountains; and that means Sevier County is among the biggest vacation rental industries in North America. As a result, the county is regularly exercising new laws each year that intends to keep safeguards on the businesses and the visitors that give business to the individuals and companies who operate within those boundaries.

If you own a short-term rental or are looking to own or manage one in Sevier County for 2024, the Sevier County government’s official website has provided this outline of the new rules and items under their legal jurisdiction that you are required to read and abide by for your vacation rental units. The following is shared from https://www.seviercountytn.gov/news_detail_T2_R68.php.

“Beginning January 1, 2024, all short-term rental units in Sevier County outside of city limits will be required to have an annual permit issued, followed by a yearly inspection. The Sevier County Short-Term Rental Unit Inspection Program is designed to ensure that all short-term rental units in Sevier County meet minimum safety standards.

What does the inspection cover?
Inspections cover a variety of safety items, including but not limited to:

Fire Safety
Smoke Alarms
Escape routes
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Electrical Safety

View all of the inspection items HERE

How to prepare for your inspection
There are a few things you can do to prepare for your short-term rental unit inspection:

Make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
Install a 2A10BC Fire Extinguisher on each level
Clear all escape routes of any obstructions.
Check all electrical wiring and outlets.
Make sure all heating and cooling systems are in good working order.
Make any necessary repairs and improvements.
Review the inspection checklist.

View all of the inspection items HERE

How Do I Complete a STRU Inspection Program Application?