Is Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
Yes — Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Mississippi as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: In November 2025, Airbnb sued the city of Biloxi over its short-term rental restrictions. There have been no major statewide legislative changes, but local ordinances continue to be developed and refined.
Quick Answer
Short-term rentals are legal in Mississippi. In November 2025, Airbnb sued the city of Biloxi over its short-term rental restrictions. Hosts should verify local ordinances and tax requirements before listing.
What the Law Says
Mississippi state law primarily requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit a 7% state sales tax. There are no statewide operational regulations, so all licensing, zoning, and safety rules are determined by local governments.
— Mississippi Property & Housing Code (Justia)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State-Level Rules | Legal; check local ordinances |
| Local Permit Requirements | Legal; may need business license |
| Violation Penalties | Must collect and remit applicable lodging/occupancy taxes. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In November 2025, Airbnb sued the city of Biloxi over its short-term rental restrictions. There have been no major statewide legislative changes, but local ordinances continue to be developed and refined.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled at the local level, with cities like Waveland, Jackson, and Laurel requiring permits and having specific ordinances. The state's primary role is the collection of the 7% sales tax.
A common violation is operating without the required local permit or registration, which can result in fines. Another is failing to collect and remit the state sales tax on rental income.
Local Exceptions
State law sets the baseline. These cities or counties have additional rules that may differ:
Bottom Line
Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals are legal in Mississippi. You can operating a short-term rental without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Mississippi vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, operating a short-term rental is fully legal in 35 states, restricted in 15, and illegal in 0. Mississippi falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is operating a short-term rental legal in Mississippi?
Do you need a permit to run an Airbnb in Mississippi?
Does the law on operating a short-term rental change at the Mississippi border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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