Permitting is the single most overlooked—and most dangerous—aspect of Airbnb ownership in New Hampshire.
Why Permits Matter More Than Most Owners Realize
Many first-time buyers assume short-term rentals are allowed everywhere. Unfortunately, that assumption can be costly. Some towns have strict permitting processes, while others actively enforce violations through daily fines.
Buying a property without understanding local rules can turn a promising investment into a liability overnight.
How Permits Vary by Town
New Hampshire does not have a single, statewide Airbnb policy. Regulations are set at the town or city level, which means:
- One town may be Airbnb-friendly
- A neighboring town may restrict or ban short-term rentals
For example, some areas require:
- Special use permits
- Annual inspections
- Owner-occupancy
- Caps on the number of rentals
Others have minimal or no restrictions—but that can change.
The Cost of Getting It Wrong
Operating without proper approval can result in:
- Daily fines
- Forced shutdowns
- Legal disputes
- Loss of projected revenue
In some cases, owners are fined per day until the listing is removed.
What Owners Must Do vs What Managers Can Help With
Property management companies can provide guidance based on experience, but the permitting process ultimately belongs to the owner.
What professionals can help with:
- Sharing known restrictions by town
- Identifying common pitfalls
- Pointing owners toward the correct municipal resources
What owners must do:
- Contact the town directly
- File applications
- Secure approvals
- Maintain compliance
Skipping this step is never worth the risk.
When to Research Permits
Ideally, permitting research happens:
- Before buying a property
- Or before converting a primary residence into an Airbnb
Waiting until after purchase is the most common—and most expensive—mistake.
The Bottom Line
Permits don’t make Airbnb ownership impossible—but ignoring them can.
Smart owners treat permitting as part of the investment analysis, not an afterthought. Doing so protects revenue, avoids penalties, and allows the business to operate with confidence.
