Information on Short-term Rentals

The City of New Orleans is committed to providing the best possible experience for all visitors and residents in New Orleans. Opportunities are offered for visitors to stay in many hospitality facilities throughout the city, which range from modern hotels to historic bed and breakfasts. These rentals are collectively defined as Short Term Rentals.

However, some facilities in the city – especially in and around the French Quarter – are not operating with the proper, city-issued licenses.

Visitors to New Orleans who are considering staying at a short-term rental for Mardi Gras, the Super Bowl, French Quarter Festival, JazzFest or other special event, should be aware of these establishments that advertise such accommodations while operating outside the parameters of the law.

The City of New Orleans recently released an updated list of hotels, guest houses and B&Bs that are properly licensed and operating in compliance with city ordinances. That list, along with a handy locator map, can be found at this link: http://new.nola.gov/short-term-rentals/.

The city ordinances governing short-term rentals, which encompasses both guest houses and B&Bs, as well as larger hotels and motels, are designed to safeguard those who pay for such accommodations. Short-term rental facilities are subject to city inspections which are designed to ensure that the quality of life experienced by our visitors meets certain high standards. Especially as they pertain to safety and sanitary requirements. Such facilities must be properly insured, again, as a safeguard for both the guests and the property owners.

Throughout the year, and especially during large-scale special events, property owners without short-term rental licenses or permits will place advertisements in print publications and over the Internet, offering rooms for rent. Visitors are cautioned not to make a commitment to any short-term rental without first verifying if it is operating within the law.

Check the list of legally operating short-term rental facilities in New Orleans – there are nearly 300 of them – and if you don't see the place you're considering on that list, make the proper inquiry to the person with whom you are communicating. Or you can call the New Orleans Safety and Permits Office at (504) 658-7100 and inquire further.