Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Pigeon Fore Tennessee.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee for 2024

Definition and Permit Requirements

• Definition of Short Term Rental: Rentals of residential units or dwellings for less than 30 consecutive days.
• Permit Types:
• Owner Occupied: Owner's principal residence used as a short term rental, excluding duplexes. The owner does not need to be present during rentals.
• Non-Owner Occupied: Can be issued to an owner or a lessee with the owner's approval.
• Unoccupied: Premises occupied only when used as a short term rental unit.

Application Process

• Permit Application: Submit the application along with the required fee of $300.
• Required Documents:
• Property address and information
• Owner's and applicant's name, address, phone number, and email
• Local contact person's details
• Hosting platforms and websites
• Proof of ownership
• Proof of residency
• Site plan
• Copy of the city and county business license
• Completed Life Safety Compliance Verification Form.

Operational Requirements

• Maximum Occupancy: No more than 12 persons per property, with two guests per bed and two beds per room.
• Signage: Display the operating permit number on the property.
• Taxes: Pay hotel occupancy privilege tax (2.50%) and sales tax (9.75%).

Safety and Health Regulations

• Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors, and Fire Extinguishers: Ensure these safety devices are present and functional.

Zoning and Historical Use

• Zoning Restrictions: Short term rentals in R-1 districts are only allowed if they were operating as such on or before August 13, 2018.

Annual Inspections

• Annual Inspection: Required for short term rental units outside city limits to ensure compliance with life safety measures.

Compliance and Penalties

• Compliance: Ensure all information provided is up-to-date to avoid suspension or revocation of the permit.
• Penalties: Failure to comply can result in fines and other penalties.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

Pigeon Forge, known as "The Center of Fun in the Smokies," is a highly lucrative market for Airbnb investments due to its proximity to major attractions and its year-round tourist appeal. Here are the top neighborhoods generating significant Airbnb revenue and the reasons they are attractive to guests:

Neighborhoods Near the Parkway

• Location: The Parkway is the main highway running through the center of Pigeon Forge, offering easy access to numerous attractions, dining, and entertainment options.
• Appeal: Guests are drawn to the convenience of being close to key attractions like Dollywood, The Island in Pigeon Forge, and various restaurants and shops. This proximity enhances the overall guest experience and makes these properties highly sought after.

Areas Close to Dollywood

• Location: Neighborhoods surrounding Dollywood, the biggest ticketed attraction in Tennessee, are highly desirable.
• Appeal: The proximity to Dollywood, which is co-owned by Dolly Parton and features rides, entertainment, and cultural experiences, makes these properties extremely attractive to families and fans of the theme park.

Neighborhoods Near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Location: Areas with scenic views or proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Appeal: Guests are attracted to the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities offered by the national park. Properties with mountain views or easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities are particularly appealing.

Areas Around The Island in Pigeon Forge

• Location: Neighborhoods near The Island in Pigeon Forge, which features dining, shopping, and family-friendly activities.
• Appeal: The Island's attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and other entertainment options, make these neighborhoods popular among families and groups looking for a fun getaway.

Neighborhoods with Scenic Views and Unique Amenities

• Location: Areas offering log cabin aesthetics, mountain-inspired designs, and unique amenities like outdoor spaces, heated indoor pools, game rooms, and hot tubs.
• Appeal: Guests seek properties that offer a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, and stunning mountain views enhance the guest experience, making these properties more lucrative for Airbnb hosts.

These neighborhoods are not only convenient for guests but also offer a unique and memorable experience, which is a key factor in their high demand and revenue generation.

Creating an Inviting Airbnb in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Design and Furnishing Tips

1. Understand Your Target Audience

• Design the space to cater to various types of guests, including families, business professionals, and adventure enthusiasts. Ensure there are functional spaces for privacy and social interaction.

2. Reflect Local Culture and Natural Beauty

• Incorporate elements that tell a story and relate to the local culture and natural surroundings of Pigeon Forge. Use materials like reclaimed wood or stone to create a rustic and authentic feel.

3. Optimize Layout and Functionality

• Ensure the layout of each room promotes conversation and guest experience. For example, the living room should have seating for all guests, and the dining area can double as a workspace or buffet.

4. Attention to Detail for Luxury Feel

• Provide luxury touches such as high-quality bedding, multiple pillow options, and temperature control. Add amenities like blackout shades, bedside tables with lamps, and USB ports or wireless charging features.

5. Mix Natural and Artificial Lighting

• Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to enhance the ambiance. Incorporate dimmer switches, lamps, and make the most of natural light through large windows.

6. Bring Greenery In

• Add plants and greenery to the space to create a welcoming and natural atmosphere. This can include indoor plants or outdoor gardens and landscaping.

7. Enhance Outdoor Spaces

• Create inviting outdoor areas with amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, and walking trails. These features can significantly enhance the guest experience and reflect the natural beauty of Pigeon Forge.

8. Tell a Unique Story Through Design

• Use local artwork, photographs, and themed decor to tell a story about the area. This can include displaying local artisans' work or nature-themed artwork to evoke an emotional response from guests.

9. Add Unique Amenities

• Offer unique amenities such as game rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, theater rooms, and outdoor activities like zip lines or basketball courts to attract more guests and create memorable experiences.

10. Create Cozy and Inviting Entryways

• Ensure the entryway makes a good first impression. Provide welcoming touches such as clean blankets, a well-lit area, and any other details that make guests feel special and thought of.

Discover the Best of Pigeon Forge: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Featured Attractions

Family-Friendly Fun

• Dollywood: Enjoy award-winning coasters, live music, and Southern charm at Dolly Parton's iconic theme park.
• WonderWorks: A science-focused indoor amusement park combining education and entertainment with over 100 interactive exhibits.
• The Island in Pigeon Forge: A 23-acre entertainment complex featuring the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a ropes course, and various shops and restaurants.

Unique Experiences

• Titanic Museum Attraction: Explore artifacts and stories of the RMS Titanic, including a new multimillion-dollar movie exhibit and interactive displays.
• Alcatraz East: A crime museum offering a behind-the-scenes look at famous crimes and law enforcement techniques.
• The Escape Game: Challenge yourself to escape themed rooms at The Island in Pigeon Forge.

Outdoor Adventures

• The Ripken Experience® Pigeon Forge: A baseball complex offering a big league experience for kids and adults alike.
• Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting in the Smoky Mountains.
• Ziplining: Explore various ziplining courses in the area for an adrenaline-packed adventure.

Entertainment and Shows

• Dolly Parton's Stampede: A dinner show featuring horse riding, music, and comedy.
• Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show: A swashbuckling dinner show with acrobatic feats and musical performances.
• Comedy Barn Theater: A family-friendly comedy and magic show.

Insider Tips

Dining

• The Island Show Fountains: Enjoy a meal while watching the state-of-the-art show fountains at The Island.
• Titanic Ice Cream: Savor unique ice cream flavors next to the Titanic Museum Attraction.

Shopping

• Arcade City at The Island: Explore a vast video arcade with a wide range of games.
• Lumberjack Square: Shop and dine in a rustic, lumberjack-themed setting.

Activities for All Ages

• TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena: A trampoline park offering extreme sports and family-friendly fun.
• Kid’s Country: A fun-filled attraction designed for younger children with various play areas.

Seasonal Events

• Christmas in Pigeon Forge: Experience festive events, decorations, and special exhibits at attractions like the Titanic Museum Attraction during the holiday season.
• Fireworks Displays: Enjoy free fireworks displays throughout the year at The Island in Pigeon Forge.

Additional Tips for Airbnb Hosts

• Provide Maps and Guides: Offer guests maps and guides to the local attractions and events.
• Recommend Local Favorites: Share personal recommendations for dining, shopping, and hidden gems in the area.
• Seasonal Information: Inform guests about seasonal events and activities to help them plan their trip.
• Discounts and Combos: Share information about combo offers and discounts available for multiple attractions to help guests save money.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, several key practices should be implemented. First, it is crucial to comply with the city's noise regulations by informing guests about quiet hours. This can be done through a comprehensive digital and physical house manual that includes instructions on noise levels, Wi-Fi passwords, and other essential information.

Creating a detailed house manual helps in setting clear expectations and reduces the likelihood of issues arising during the stay. Additionally, simplifying the check-in process using smart locks eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and provides guests with immediate access to the property. Providing parking instructions accompanied by photos ensures that guests can navigate the property easily, reducing potential confusion and enhancing their overall experience.

By adhering to these tips, hosts can maintain a positive relationship with their guests, comply with local regulations, and ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay for all visitors to Pigeon Forge.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning, repair, and maintenance providers in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee:

House Cleaning Services

Moonshine Cleaners

• Specializes in cabin cleaning for Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
• Offers full-service cleaning solutions and maintenance.

Noah's Cleaning Services

• Provides comprehensive cleaning services for homes, offices, post-construction sites, and Airbnb rentals.
• Known for attention to detail, competitive pricing, and professionalism.

Multi-Service Providers

Mountaineer Cleaning & Maintenance

• Offers cleaning, laundry, maintenance, landscaping, and hot tub services for rental cabins in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and surrounding areas.
• Awarded as one of the best cleaning and maintenance services in Sevierville, TN.

General House Cleaning Services

Various Providers Listed on Care.com and Angie's List

• Multiple local house cleaning services listed, offering a range of cleaning options and rates.
• Services include standard, deep, move-in, and move-out cleaning, among others.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, short-term rental management fees can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue, depending on the level and scope of services provided. Full-service management companies, such as Colonial Properties and PMI Smoky Mountains, which handle comprehensive tasks including guest communication, marketing, booking management, and maintenance, tend to charge fees on the higher end of this spectrum, often between 20% to 30% of the rental income.

In contrast, basic or half-service management, as offered by companies like Evolve, may charge lower fees, starting at around 10% of the revenue, but these services often leave more of the day-to-day tasks to the property owner.

Additionally, property owners may incur extra fees for services such as professional cleaning, repairs, and design or furnishing, which can be billed separately or included in the overall management fee structure.