Renting your home on Cape Cod comes with more than just welcoming guests — it also means staying compliant with your town’s local rental regulations. While Massachusetts requires all short-term rental owners to register with the state, most Cape Cod towns have additional, town-specific licensing or registration requirements that must be completed annually.
These local rules vary by town and may include registration forms, inspection affidavits, safety certifications, and local fees. Staying up to date is essential to avoid fines, booking interruptions, or enforcement issues during the season.
Below is a clear overview of what Cape Cod homeowners should expect, town by town.
Provincetown has one of the most detailed local registration programs on the Cape. Owners must register annually with the town, pay a local registration fee, and meet specific safety and compliance standards. Registration is required even if you are already registered with the state. Click Here
Truro requires short-term rental registration and compliance with local health and safety regulations. Owners are responsible for completing town paperwork and maintaining documentation related to occupancy limits and emergency contacts. Click Here
Wellfleet maintains a local rental registration process that includes submitting property information and paying an annual fee. Additional documentation may be required depending on property type and use. Click Here
Eastham requires vacation rental registration and adherence to local bylaws. Owners should confirm annual filing deadlines and ensure all safety requirements are met before the rental season begins. Click Here
Orleans requires rental registration with the town and may request safety compliance documentation. Registration must be renewed regularly, even if ownership has not changed. Click Here
Chatham enforces local rental registration rules and fees. Owners should be aware of inspection requirements and town-specific policies related to occupancy and neighborhood impact. Click Here
Harwich requires short-term rental registration and payment of a local fee. Documentation related to property safety and contact information is typically required. Click Here
Dennis has a local registration process for short-term rentals, including an annual fee and required forms. Timely renewal is important to remain compliant throughout the season. Click Here
Yarmouth requires local rental registration and may request additional documentation related to health, safety, or property use. Owners should verify renewal timelines each year. Click Here
Barnstable (including its villages) requires registration of short-term rentals and payment of a town fee. Requirements apply across all villages and must be kept current annually. Click Here
Brewster requires rental registration and compliance with local regulations. Owners should ensure their registration is completed prior to advertising or renting their home. Click Here
Falmouth enforces a local rental registration program with annual renewal requirements. Property details, fees, and compliance documentation are part of the process. Click Here
Sandwich requires vacation rental registration and adherence to town bylaws. Owners should confirm required forms and renewal schedules to stay in good standing. Click Here
Each Cape Cod town manages short-term rentals differently. There is no single “one-size-fits-all” license, and registering with the state alone does not satisfy local requirements. Staying informed — and acting early — helps protect your rental income and avoids unnecessary issues during the busy season.
If you’re unsure which rules apply to your home, reviewing your town’s requirements annually is one of the most important steps you can take as a vacation rental owner