Atlanta, Georgia Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Atlanta, Georgia?

Atlanta's short-term rental market has become increasingly regulated in recent years, with the city implementing comprehensive ordinances to balance the interests of property owners, neighbors, and the local housing market. If you're considering entering the short-term rental business in Atlanta, understanding these regulations is crucial to operating legally and avoiding potentially costly penalties.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Atlanta, Georgia

The City of Atlanta adopted its Short-Term Rental Ordinance on March 15, 2021, with enforcement beginning in 2022. This ordinance established a legal framework for "home-sharing" - the practice of renting residential properties for stays of less than 30 consecutive days. If you're looking to start a short-term rental business in Atlanta, here's what you need to know:

Licensing Requirements

To legally operate a short-term rental in Atlanta, you must obtain a Short-Term Rental License (STRL). The application process includes:

1. Paying an annual non-refundable fee of $150
2. Providing proof of residency in the City of Atlanta
3. Submitting your application through the city's online permitting portal
4. Waiting up to 10 business days for application processing

Property Limitations

Atlanta's regulations limit short-term rental ownership to a maximum of two properties per resident. Importantly:

1. One of these properties must be your primary residence
2. You must obtain the license for your primary residence first before applying for a second property
3. Your primary residence doesn't need to be actively rented for you to operate your second property

Documentation Requirements

When applying for your short-term rental license, you'll need to provide:

1. The address of the rental unit
2. Contact information for the agent or 24-hour contact person
3. A signed acknowledgment that you understand the requirements
4. Information about available parking spaces
5. Agreement to ensure the rental doesn't disturb neighbors
6. A copy of the written rules posted in the rental unit

Operational Requirements

Once licensed, you must:

1. Display your STRL number on all advertisements for your property
2. Adhere to maximum occupancy limits of two adults per bedroom
3. Collect and remit Atlanta's 8% hotel-motel tax (unless collected by the booking platform)
4. Formally notify neighboring property owners that your property is being used as a short-term rental
5. Maintain compliance with noise ordinances and other community standards

Enforcement and Penalties

The Atlanta Police Department's Code Enforcement handles licensed rental properties, while the Department of City Planning's zoning inspectors are responsible for unlicensed properties. Violations can result in:

• A $500 fine for first-time offenses
• Potential suspension of your rental permit for repeated infractions
• License revocation if you receive three or more code violations within a 12-month period
• A 12-month bar from applying for another license following revocation

Zoning Considerations

Atlanta's zoning ordinances permit short-term rentals in all residential zones. This includes Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) such as garage apartments or in-law suites, which must adhere to the same standards and licensing requirements as primary residences.

Tax Obligations

In addition to the 8% hotel-motel tax mentioned earlier, short-term rental operators in Georgia are required to pay state sales taxes. While Georgia doesn't have statewide regulations specifically for short-term rentals, these tax obligations apply to all operators throughout the state.

Recent Developments

As of early 2025, Atlanta's City Council has been reviewing the short-term rental policy to clarify licensing requirements and potentially rework aspects of the ordinance that have faced backlash. This review process may lead to updates in documentation requirements, zoning requirements, and current limitations on property ownership.

Starting a short-term rental business in Atlanta requires careful attention to these regulations. By obtaining the proper licenses, adhering to operational requirements, and staying informed about potential changes to the ordinance, you can build a successful and compliant short-term rental business in this vibrant city.

Remember that regulations can change, so it's advisable to periodically check the City of Atlanta's Department of City Planning website for the most up-to-date information on short-term rental requirements.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Atlanta Georgia

Atlanta's short-term rental market is governed by a comprehensive licensing system established through Ordinance 20-0-1656, which was adopted by the Atlanta City Council on March 15, 2021. This ordinance created a formal framework for "home-sharing" - the practice of renting residential properties for periods of 30 consecutive days or less. The regulations officially took effect on March 1, 2022, though enforcement dates have been adjusted several times to allow property owners adequate time to comply.

License Application Process

To legally operate a short-term rental in Atlanta, you must obtain a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) through the following process:

1. Submit your application through the City of Atlanta's online permitting portal
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $150
3. Provide proof that one of the properties is your primary residence
4. Include contact information for the designated short-term rental agent or 24-hour contact person
5. Submit a signed acknowledgment that you understand all requirements
6. Provide information about available parking at the property
7. Include a written agreement to ensure rental guests don't disturb neighbors
8. Submit a copy of the written rules that will be posted in the rental unit

The City of Atlanta's Department of Planning and Community Development processes these applications, which typically takes up to 10 business days. The license is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually with the same $150 fee.

Eligibility Requirements

Not everyone can obtain a short-term rental license in Atlanta. The ordinance specifies that:

1. Only property owners or long-term tenants can apply for a license
2. Applicants are limited to a maximum of two short-term rental properties
3. One of these properties must be the applicant's primary residence
4. You must obtain the license for your primary residence first before applying for a second property
5. Adjacent property owners must be formally notified when a property becomes a short-term rental

Operational Requirements

Once licensed, short-term rental operators must adhere to several ongoing requirements:

1. Display the STRL number on all advertisements and listings for the property
2. Limit occupancy to a maximum of two adults per bedroom
3. Collect and remit Atlanta's 8% hotel-motel tax (unless collected by the booking platform)
4. Collect and remit state sales tax (though platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo typically handle this)
5. Maintain a designated agent or 24-hour contact person who can respond to issues
6. Ensure guests comply with local noise ordinances and neighborhood standards
7. Provide guests with written rules regarding parking, noise, and trash disposal
8. Use "best efforts" to ensure guests don't disrupt the neighborhood

Enforcement and Penalties

The City of Atlanta takes compliance with short-term rental regulations seriously. Violations can result in:

1. A $500 fine for each code violation
2. Property owners being held financially responsible for all violations that occur at their properties
3. Suspension of the short-term rental license for repeated infractions
4. License revocation if a property accumulates three or more code violations within a 12-month period
5. A 12-month prohibition from operating as a short-term rental following license revocation
6. Continued fines for operating without a license

The City has established email and phone hotlines for neighbors to report complaints about short-term rentals. When complaints are received, they're investigated by either the Atlanta Police Department's Code Enforcement (for licensed properties) or the Department of City Planning's zoning inspectors (for unlicensed properties).

Appeals Process

The Department of City Planning oversees the appeals process for short-term rental license decisions. If your application is denied, you have 30 days from the date of the adverse decision to file an appeal. Similarly, if your license is suspended or revoked, you have the right to appeal that decision within the same timeframe.

Recent Developments

It's worth noting that the City of Atlanta has shown flexibility in implementing these regulations. For example, in April 2022, the City Council approved an extension of the enforcement deadline to June 1, 2022, to provide operators more time to come into compliance. This demonstrates the city's commitment to working with short-term rental operators while still maintaining necessary oversight.

The short-term rental licensing requirements in Atlanta represent a balanced approach that allows for the economic benefits of home-sharing while protecting neighborhood quality of life and addressing potential impacts on the housing market. By obtaining the proper license and adhering to these regulations, short-term rental operators can build successful businesses while being good neighbors in their communities.

Required Documents for Atlanta, Georgia Short-Term Rentals

When applying for a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) in Atlanta, you'll need to gather and submit several essential documents. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in ensuring that your rental operation complies with city regulations and maintains neighborhood standards. Here's a comprehensive list of the required documentation:

Completed Application Form
The short-term rental license application must be filled out completely and accurately. This form collects essential information about you as the property owner, details about the rental unit, and information about your designated local contact person. The application can be accessed through the City of Atlanta's online permitting portal.

Proof of Property Ownership
You must provide a deed or other legal document that clearly demonstrates your ownership of the rental property. This establishes your legal right to use the property as a short-term rental. A copy of your property deed can typically be obtained from the Fulton County Clerk of Superior Court's Real Estate Division.

Government-Issued ID
A valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport, is required to verify your identity and confirm your residency in Atlanta. This helps ensure that only legitimate property owners or long-term tenants are operating short-term rentals in the city.

Short-Term Rental Homeowner's Affidavit
This is a notarized form attesting that all information provided in your application is true and accurate. The affidavit form can be obtained from the City of Atlanta's Department of City Planning website and must be signed in the presence of a notary public.

Short-Term Rental Agent Affidavit and Authorization
If you're applying on behalf of the primary property owner, you must submit a notarized agent affidavit and authorization form. This document confirms that you have the legal authority to act as an agent for the property owner. This form is also available on the city's website.

Proof of Insurance
Evidence of homeowner's or renter's insurance that specifically covers the property for short-term rental use is required. The City of Atlanta requires coverage of at least $500,000. Contact your insurance provider to obtain documentation that clearly shows your coverage amount and that the property is insured for short-term rental activities.

HOA Statement (if applicable)
If your property is governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), you must provide a signed and notarized statement from the HOA confirming that short-term rentals are permitted within the community. This helps prevent situations where hosts operate rentals in violation of their HOA covenants.

Certified Letters to Adjacent Properties
You must provide evidence that you have notified adjacent property owners of your intent to operate a short-term rental. This typically involves sending certified mail to neighboring property owners and submitting the certified mail receipts with your application.

Parking Map
A diagram or photograph of your property indicating the available parking spaces for guests must be included. This helps ensure that your guests' vehicles won't create parking issues in the neighborhood. A Google Maps screenshot with parking areas clearly marked is typically acceptable.

Floor Plan
A floor plan of your rental unit, including the number and dimensions of bedrooms, is required. This helps the city verify that your property meets occupancy limits (two adults per bedroom) and safety requirements. The floor plan doesn't need to be professionally drawn but should be clear and accurate.

Local Contact Person Information
You must provide the name, address, and phone number of a designated local contact person who can respond to issues 24/7. This person must reside within a reasonable distance of the property (typically within the city limits) and be available to address any problems that may arise during a guest's stay.

Sales Tax Certification
Evidence of a valid sales tax certification number issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue is required, as short-term rental operators must collect and remit the 8% hotel/motel tax. You can register for this certification through the Georgia Tax Center website.

All these documents, along with your completed application and the $150 annual fee payment, must be submitted to the City of Atlanta's Department of City Planning. The application can be submitted through the city's online permitting portal, and the review process typically takes up to 10 business days.

Ensuring that all your documentation is complete and accurate will help streamline the application process and avoid unnecessary delays in obtaining your short-term rental license. Remember that operating without a license can result in significant fines of $500 per violation and potential restrictions on future licensing eligibility.

Atlanta, Georgia Short-Term Rental Taxes

Operating a short-term rental in Atlanta comes with several tax obligations that hosts must understand and comply with to avoid penalties. These taxes contribute to local infrastructure, tourism development, and public services. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the tax requirements for short-term rental operators in Atlanta:

Georgia State Sales Tax

All short-term rental operators in Georgia must collect and remit a 4% state sales tax on the total listing price, including cleaning fees, for stays of 89 nights or less. This tax applies to the entire rental amount and is mandated by the Georgia Department of Revenue. Most major booking platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts, simplifying compliance for many operators.

Atlanta Hotel-Motel Tax

Short-term rental hosts in Atlanta are required to collect and remit a 7-8% hotel-motel tax on all bookings of 30 consecutive days or less. Unlike the state sales tax, this local tax is often not collected by booking platforms, making it the host's responsibility to:

• Register with the City of Atlanta's tax department
• Collect this tax from guests
• File monthly tax returns
• Remit the collected taxes to the city

This tax directly funds local tourism initiatives, convention centers, and other hospitality-related infrastructure in Atlanta. The exact rate may vary slightly depending on specific locations within the city limits.

Georgia Hotel-Motel Fee

In addition to percentage-based taxes, Georgia imposes a flat $5 per night hotel-motel fee on all short-term rentals for stays of 30 days or less. This fee applies to each night of a guest's stay and must be collected from the guest. Many booking platforms, including Airbnb, collect and remit this fee automatically, but hosts should verify this to ensure compliance.

County and Local Sales Taxes

Beyond state and city taxes, Atlanta short-term rental operators may also be subject to additional county and local sales taxes. These typically range from 2% to 5% of the total listing price for reservations of 89 nights or less. The specific rate depends on the property's exact location within the Atlanta metropolitan area. Most booking platforms collect and remit these local taxes, but hosts should confirm this with their specific platform.

Tax Exemptions

There are some important exemptions to be aware of:

• Stays longer than 30 consecutive days are typically exempt from the hotel-motel tax and the $5 per night hotel-motel fee
• Stays longer than 89 consecutive days are generally exempt from the state sales tax
• Government officials and certain nonprofit organizations may be exempt from short-term rental taxes in some cases, though proper documentation is required

Tax Filing Requirements

Tax filings for Atlanta short-term rental operators are typically due on the 20th day of the month following the end of the assigned filing period. The Georgia Department of Revenue and the City of Atlanta may assign different filing schedules (monthly, quarterly, or annually) based on your rental volume and revenue.

Tax Deductions and Write-Offs for Atlanta Short-Term Rental Operators

Short-term rental hosts in Atlanta can significantly reduce their tax liability by taking advantage of various deductions related to their rental business. Here are the most common deductible expenses:

Property-Related Deductions

• Mortgage interest on loans used to acquire or improve the rental property
• Property taxes paid to local governments
• Depreciation of the property structure (typically over 27.5 years)
• Depreciation of furniture, appliances, and fixtures (typically over 5-7 years)

Operational Expenses

• Cleaning services and supplies
• Maintenance and repairs
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet, cable)
• Insurance premiums for rental coverage
• Property management fees
• Booking platform service fees

Business Services

• Accounting and bookkeeping services
• Legal fees related to the rental business
• Professional photography for listings
• Marketing and advertising expenses

Home Office Deduction
If you use part of your home exclusively for managing your short-term rental business, you may qualify for a home office deduction. This can include a percentage of your home's utilities, internet, and even rent or mortgage interest based on the square footage used for business purposes.

To maximize these deductions, maintain meticulous records of all expenses related to your short-term rental business, including receipts, invoices, and payment confirmations. Consider working with a tax professional who specializes in real estate investments to ensure you're claiming all eligible deductions while remaining compliant with tax laws.

Understanding and properly managing these tax obligations and deductions is essential for running a profitable and compliant short-term rental business in Atlanta. By staying informed about current tax rates and requirements, you can avoid penalties while maximizing your rental income.

Georgia Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

Unlike many states that have implemented comprehensive statewide regulations for the short-term rental industry, Georgia has taken a more hands-off approach at the state level. As of April 2025, Georgia does not have any statewide laws specifically regulating short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO. Instead, the state has delegated regulatory authority to individual cities and counties, allowing them to establish their own rules based on local needs and concerns.

State Tax Requirements

While Georgia doesn't regulate the operational aspects of short-term rentals at the state level, it does impose several tax obligations that apply uniformly across all jurisdictions:

• State Sales Tax: All short-term rental operators in Georgia must collect and remit a 4% state sales tax on the total rental amount, including cleaning fees and other charges, for stays of 89 nights or less. This tax is administered by the Georgia Department of Revenue.
• Hotel-Motel Fee: Georgia imposes a mandatory $5 per night hotel-motel fee on all short-term rental stays of 30 days or less. This flat fee applies to each night of a guest's stay and must be collected and remitted to the state.
• Tax Registration: All short-term rental operators must register with the Georgia Department of Revenue to legally collect and remit these taxes. This registration is required regardless of which city or county your property is located in.

Proposed Legislation

The Georgia state legislature has considered bills related to short-term rentals in recent years. Most notably, House Bill 523 was introduced in March 2019, which proposed to restrict local governments from regulating short-term rentals. As of April 2025, this bill remains under consideration but has not been enacted into law. If passed, it could significantly impact the ability of cities like Atlanta to maintain their current regulatory frameworks.

Legal Framework

In the absence of specific state regulations, short-term rentals in Georgia operate under the general legal framework that applies to all rental properties, including:

• Property Rights Laws: Basic property rights protections under Georgia law
• Landlord-Tenant Laws: While typically focused on long-term rentals, some provisions may apply to short-term arrangements
• General Business Regulations: Requirements for operating a business in Georgia, including business licenses and tax compliance

Insurance Considerations

While not a regulatory requirement, Georgia property owners should be aware that standard homeowner's insurance policies typically do not cover short-term rental activities. Short-term rental operators should obtain specialized insurance coverage that specifically addresses the unique risks associated with temporary guests. Many insurance providers in Georgia now offer policies tailored to short-term rental properties.

Impact on Atlanta Hosts

For Atlanta short-term rental hosts, the lack of statewide regulations means that the city's local ordinances are the primary regulatory framework you must follow. However, you must still comply with all state tax requirements in addition to Atlanta's local regulations and tax obligations.

The decentralized regulatory approach in Georgia creates a patchwork of rules that vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. This can be challenging for hosts who operate properties in multiple cities or counties within the state, as they must navigate different licensing requirements, operational restrictions, and local tax rates.

As the short-term rental industry continues to evolve in Georgia, hosts should stay informed about potential changes to state legislation that could preempt or modify local regulations. Industry associations and local host groups can be valuable resources for tracking legislative developments and advocating for balanced regulations that protect both property rights and community interests.

Does Atlanta Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Atlanta has developed a reputation for increasingly strict enforcement of its short-term rental regulations, particularly since the implementation of its comprehensive ordinance in 2021. The city's approach to enforcement has evolved from relatively lax oversight to a more systematic and rigorous process of identifying and penalizing non-compliant operators.

Based on experiences shared by hosts on platforms like Reddit and BiggerPockets, Atlanta is now actively enforcing its short-term rental regulations with real consequences for those who fail to comply. One host on BiggerPockets reported receiving "a hefty fine for operating my Atlanta Airbnb without a license," adding that "the city is definitely cracking down." This experience reflects the growing consensus that Atlanta authorities are serious about ensuring compliance with licensing requirements.

The enforcement mechanism in Atlanta involves both the Atlanta Police Department's Code Enforcement division, which handles licensed rental properties, and the Department of City Planning's zoning inspectors, who focus on unlicensed properties. This two-pronged approach allows the city to address different types of violations effectively.

Despite the regulations and increasing enforcement, some hosts continue to operate without proper permits in Atlanta. As one Reddit user noted in March 2025, "You don't actually need the Atlanta permit to list on AirBnB in Atlanta. The city doesn't enforce penalties for listing on AirBnB without a permit. AirBnB will let you list a unit, but at your own risk." This observation highlights a significant gap in enforcement - while the city may penalize hosts they discover operating illegally, the process of identifying these hosts remains challenging.

The consensus among experienced hosts is that while some operators continue to fly under the radar, the risks of non-compliance in Atlanta are increasing. The potential penalties - including $500 fines per violation, license suspension, and even revocation - make operating without proper permits an increasingly risky proposition. As one host succinctly put it, "Play by the rules or face the consequences."

For those considering entering the short-term rental market in Atlanta, the message is clear: while enforcement may not be perfect, the city is actively working to identify non-compliant operators, and the financial and operational risks of operating without proper licensing far outweigh any potential short-term gains. The most sustainable approach is to obtain the required licenses, pay applicable taxes, and adhere to all regulations governing short-term rentals in the city.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Atlanta, Georgia

Starting a short-term rental business in Atlanta requires careful planning, thorough research, and strict adherence to local regulations. The city's comprehensive ordinance, which took effect on March 1, 2022, has created a structured framework that all hosts must navigate to operate legally. Here's a step-by-step guide to launching your short-term rental business in Atlanta:

Research Atlanta's Short-Term Rental Regulations

Begin by thoroughly familiarizing yourself with Atlanta's Short-Term Rental Ordinance. The regulations define short-term rentals as residential dwelling units providing lodging for transient guests for up to 30 consecutive days in exchange for compensation. Understanding these rules is crucial before making any investment. Review the City of Atlanta's Department of City Planning website, attend local real estate investor meetings, and consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in real estate regulations to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of all requirements.

Identify Suitable Properties

When selecting a property for short-term rental purposes in Atlanta, remember that you're limited to a maximum of two properties, one of which must be your primary residence. Look for properties in neighborhoods with high tourist demand, proximity to attractions, or business districts. Research comparable listings to understand pricing trends and occupancy rates in different areas. Consider factors like walkability, access to public transportation, and nearby amenities that would appeal to travelers. Properties near the Atlanta BeltLine, Midtown, Buckhead, or within walking distance to Mercedes-Benz Stadium often perform well as short-term rentals.

Create a Detailed Business Plan

Treat your short-term rental as a full-blown business venture by creating a comprehensive business plan. Calculate all potential expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, internet service, cleaning services, maintenance costs, furnishings, consumables for guests, and marketing expenses. Estimate your potential revenue based on average nightly rates and projected occupancy levels. Having a clear financial picture will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and determine if your investment will be profitable in the long run.

Obtain a Short-Term Rental License

Apply for a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) through the City of Atlanta's online permitting portal. The application requires a non-refundable fee of $150 and must include the address of the rental unit, contact information for your designated 24-hour contact person, a signed acknowledgment of requirements, information about available parking spaces, an agreement to ensure the rental doesn't disturb neighbors, and a copy of the written rules that will be posted in the unit. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Remember that you must first obtain a license for your primary residence before applying for a second property.

Register with Tax Authorities

Register your short-term rental business with the Georgia Department of Revenue to obtain a sales tax number. You'll need to collect and remit the 4% state sales tax and the $5 per night hotel-motel fee for stays of less than 30 nights. Additionally, register with the City of Atlanta's tax department to collect and remit the 7-8% hotel-motel tax, unless your booking platform does this on your behalf. Set up a system to track these tax obligations and ensure timely payments to avoid penalties.

Notify Adjacent Property Owners

Atlanta requires that you formally notify all adjacent property owners of your intent to operate a short-term rental. This notification must be done via certified mail, and you'll need to provide evidence of these notifications (certified mail receipts) with your license application. This step helps maintain transparency with neighbors and provides them with contact information should any issues arise during guest stays.

Obtain Proper Insurance Coverage

Standard homeowner's insurance typically doesn't cover short-term rental activities. Secure specialized insurance that specifically addresses the unique risks associated with temporary guests. Look for policies that offer coverage for property damage, liability protection, and loss of income. Many major insurance carriers now offer policies tailored to short-term rental properties, or you can explore options from companies that specialize in vacation rental insurance.

Prepare Your Property for Guests

Invest in quality furnishings, linens, and amenities to create a comfortable and appealing space for guests. Stock the kitchen with essential cookware and utensils, provide high-speed internet, and consider extras like smart TVs with streaming services. Create a welcoming atmosphere with thoughtful touches like local guidebooks, coffee supplies, and basic toiletries. Ensure the property is thoroughly cleaned and maintained between guests, and establish a reliable system for check-in and check-out procedures.

Create Comprehensive House Rules

Develop clear, written house rules that address noise restrictions, parking guidelines, trash disposal, maximum occupancy limits, and other important policies. These rules must be posted visibly within the rental unit as required by Atlanta's ordinance. Well-defined rules help set expectations for guests and can prevent potential issues with neighbors or property damage. Include emergency contact information and instructions for using appliances and amenities.

List Your Property on Booking Platforms

Create compelling listings on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and other booking sites. Use high-quality professional photographs that showcase your property's best features. Write detailed, engaging descriptions highlighting unique amenities and nearby attractions. Be sure to display your STRL number prominently on all advertisements as required by Atlanta law. Consider using a channel manager to synchronize your calendar across multiple platforms to prevent double bookings.

Implement a Management System

Establish efficient systems for managing bookings, guest communications, cleaning schedules, and maintenance issues. Consider using property management software to streamline these processes. Arrange for reliable cleaning and maintenance services, and ensure your designated 24-hour contact person is prepared to respond promptly to any guest concerns or emergencies. If you don't plan to manage the property yourself, research reputable property management companies that specialize in short-term rentals in Atlanta.

Monitor Performance and Adapt

Regularly review your rental's performance metrics, including occupancy rates, average nightly rates, and guest feedback. Stay informed about changes to local regulations, market trends, and competitor pricing. Continuously improve your property and services based on guest reviews and evolving traveler preferences. Consider adjusting your pricing strategy seasonally or for special events in Atlanta to maximize revenue.

By following these steps and remaining committed to compliance with Atlanta's regulations, you can build a successful and legally compliant short-term rental business. Remember that the landscape of short-term rental regulations continues to evolve, so staying informed about any changes to local ordinances is essential for long-term success in this industry.

Who to Contact in Atlanta, Georgia about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

Navigating the complex landscape of short-term rental regulations in Atlanta requires knowing exactly who to contact for accurate information and assistance. Whether you're just starting your short-term rental business or need clarification on existing rules, these official contacts and community resources can provide valuable guidance.

City of Atlanta Department of City Planning

The Department of City Planning is the primary authority overseeing short-term rental licensing and regulations in Atlanta. For questions about the Short-Term Rental Ordinance, licensing requirements, or application status, contact:

• Email: STR@atlantaga.gov
• Phone: 404-330-6070
• Address: 55 Trinity Avenue, Suite 1450, Atlanta, GA 30303

This department handles all aspects of the short-term rental licensing process, including application reviews, license renewals, and enforcement of the ordinance. They can provide clarification on specific requirements and help troubleshoot issues with your application.

Office of Zoning and Development

For questions specifically related to zoning regulations that may affect your short-term rental property, contact:

• Email: DCPOZD@atlantaga.gov
• Phone: 404-330-6145
• Address: City Hall, 55 Trinity Avenue SW, Suite 3350, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

The Office of Zoning and Development can help clarify whether your property is zoned appropriately for short-term rental use and provide information about any special permits or exceptions that might be required.

Office of the Commissioner

For more complex issues or escalations regarding short-term rental policies, you can reach out to the Commissioner's office:

• Contact: Nicole Jenkins
• Email: Snjenkins@Atlantaga.gov
• Phone: 404-330-6037

Tax Registration and Compliance

For questions about tax registration, collection, and remittance related to short-term rentals:

1. Georgia Department of Revenue: Handles state sales tax registration and compliance
2. City of Atlanta Office of Revenue: Manages the local hotel-motel tax

Atlanta Metro Short Term Rental Alliance (AMSTRA)

AMSTRA is dedicated to preserving Atlanta's short-term rental community through advocacy, education, and support of reasonable regulations. They provide valuable information and resources for local hosts.

When contacting any of these resources, be prepared with specific questions about your property and situation. Having details like your property address, current zoning designation, and specific concerns will help you get the most accurate and helpful information.

Remember that regulations can change, so it's advisable to verify current requirements directly with official sources before making significant decisions about your short-term rental business. Building relationships with both official contacts and community resources will help you stay informed about changes that could affect your operation.