Most Martha's Vineyard Towns Forgo STR Inspections

8/12/2026

Most Martha’s Vineyard towns have yet to implement Massachusetts’s 2025 requirement for regular safety inspections of many short-term rentals, citing staffing, costs, and unclear regulations. West Tisbury is the only town conducting routine inspections, which have uncovered issues including expired smoke alarms and inadequate emergency exits. Other municipalities are focusing on rental registration while awaiting clearer state guidance on enforcement.

Vineyard Gazette (07/30/26) Ethan Genter