Short Term Rental Registration Instructions including Link to Step by Step Registration Guide

Short Term Rental Registration

1) If you need assistance registering and would like a step by step guide to help walk you through the process, please click on the following link:

https://johnbugbee.wixsite.com/town-of-wellfleet-sh

2)  If you are fairly familiar with the process and need simple instructions on the process, please follow the information & instructions below:

SHORT-TERM RENTAL REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR 2026 

The Select Board has approved the short-term rental registry and fee structure for 2026.    All short-term rentals operating in 2026 must complete registration and inspection requirements to receive a Short-Term Rental Certificate.

At the 2026 May Town Meeting the Short-Term Rental Bylaw was approved and is currently being reviewed by the Attorney General’s Office.  Once approved, a copy will be available online.

REGISTRATION AND INSPECTION 

Register Here 

If you have not previously used the OpenGov software, you need to Apply Online and select Sign Up.  Use your preferred email address and create a password. From there, you will be prompted to enter your contact information and property address to proceed as instructed.

ONLINE REGISTRATION

• The online rental registration system will be available starting January 15, 2026. The system will allow property owners to:
• Register your short-term rental
• Submit required documents
• Schedule an inspection
• Pay registration and inspection fees

INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

• All short-term rental properties must meet the following safety requirements:
• Functioning smoke detector(s) 
• Functioning carbon monoxide alarm(s) (if applicable)
• Two means of egress
• Railings on decks/stairs (if applicable)
• Swimming pool has required safety measures in place (if applicable)

FEE STRUCTURE

• Registration Fee: $300
• Inspection Fee: $120
• Total: $420

Payment may be made online (processing fees apply) or by check mailed to The Town of Wellfleet 300 Main Street, Wellfleet, MA 02667.

Make check payable to the Town of Wellfleet. Upon receipt of payment, your application will be reviewed and if approved, and you will receive an email with a link to schedule your inspection at a convenient time.

The Building Inspector is available Tuesdays and Thursdays between 12pm – 4pm.

After completing registration, paying the required fees, and passing inspection, your Short-Term Rental Certificate is available for download through OpenGov. Simply enter your property address in the Search box located in the top right corner of the screen to locate your certificate. No login is required to retrieve it.

IMPORTANT: Failure to register and complete inspection may result in penalties and prohibition from operating a short-term rental.

For any questions contact the housing coordinator: Ann Schiffenhaus   ann.schiffenhaus@wellfleet-ma.gov or 508-349-0300 x 1123.