In Atlanta, a short-term rental is defined as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer. The owner doesn’t have to be on-site at the property while tenants are present.
Key Takeaways
- Atlanta defines a short-term rental as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer, and the owner does not need to be on-site during a guest’s stay.
- Short-term rentals are allowed within city limits but must be tied to a primary residence. Landlords can license a primary residence and include one additional property under the same license, as long as one of the two qualifies as the primary residence.
- Landlords must secure a 12-month license (renewed annually), display the license number online, and keep an always-available local contact while occupied. Operators also must notify adjacent neighbors and post the license details and house rules inside the unit.
Zoning and Property Restrictions
Short-term rentals are permitted within Atlanta city limits, but they are restricted to a primary residence. An owner may obtain a license for a primary residence and include another property under that license. However, one of the properties must qualify as the primary residence. Landlords may choose to rent the primary dwelling, the additional unit, or both, as long as all licensing requirements are met.
License and Registration Requirements
The owner of the property, long-term tenant, or authorized short-term rental agent can apply for a short-term rental license, which is valid for 12 months. Licenses must be renewed annually.
Documentation requirements vary depending on the applicant. Owners must submit:
- Government-issued ID of homeowner
- Government-issued ID of STR agent (Can be homeowner)
- STR Primary Residence Homeowner's Affidavit
- STR Agent Affidavit Authorization (Owner can be the STR Agent and must submit affidavit)
- Proof of primary residence documents (utility bill)
- Proof of ownership documents (deed)
- Proof of neighbor notification
- Short-term rental rules
Other Requirements
For all short-term rentals, they must have a contact (either the owner or an agent) that is available at all times while the property is occupied. In addition, when listing the property online, the license number must be displayed.
Operational Requirements and Compliance Rules
Hosts must notify adjacent neighbors before operating. Notifications must follow the outlined guidelines:
- Sent notice via certified USPS mail to the properties immediately adjacent to the short-term rental
- Include the address of the short-term rental unit
- Provide the contact information for the designated short-term rental agent or owner
- Identify the addresses of the neighboring properties receiving the notice
The short-term rental license must be posted visibly inside the unit. The posting must include:
- The license number
- Maximum occupancy
- Maximum number of permitted vehicles
- Contact information for owner or designated agent
Written house rules must also be displayed inside the property, including noise restrictions, occupancy limits, and consequences for violations. For multifamily buildings (townhomes, apartments, condos), an evacuation plan must be submitted and posted in the unit.
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This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. The information presented here is a general overview and is not all-encompassing; it may not cover every requirement, exception, permitting process, enforcement practice, or recent update in each location. Short-term rental laws and tax rules vary by location and can change, so verify current requirements and consult a qualified attorney or professional for guidance.
FAQs
Are short-term rentals legal in Atlanta?
Yes, short-term rentals are permitted within Atlanta city limits as long as they follow the city’s rules, including the primary-residence restriction and licensing requirements. In Atlanta, a short-term rental is defined as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer.
Do I need a license or permit in Atlanta to operate a short-term rental?
Yes. You must apply for an Atlanta short-term rental license, which is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually. The property owner, long-term tenant, or an authorized short-term rental agent can apply.
Does a short-term rental have to be my primary residence in Atlanta?
Yes, Atlanta restricts short-term rentals to a primary residence. An owner may obtain a license for a primary residence and include another property under that license, but at least one of the properties must qualify as the primary residence. Hosts can rent the primary dwelling, the additional unit, or both, so long as all licensing requirements are met. However, you can also rent out your home in Atlanta long-term.
