Short-Term Rentals in Athens, GA (2026)
8 verified short-term rentals rules for Athens, Georgia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Permit Requirements
Athens-Clarke (Title 9 amendments adopted Feb 6, 2024) limits owner-occupied STRs in single-family zones to 30 nights per year. Non-owner-occupied STRs in residential zones must phase out within 2 years. 7% hotel-motel tax applies.
Athens-Clarke STR Ordinance — 30-Day Owner Cap
Heavy RestrictionsNoise Rules
Athens STRs must comply with the general noise ordinance. Georgia cities commonly impose additional noise conditions on STR permits.
Athens STR Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsTaxes & Fees
Athens STRs are subject to Georgia state sales tax (4% + local) and local Hotel/Motel Tax under O.C.G.A. §48-13-50 et seq.
Athens STR Taxes & Fees
Some RestrictionsParking Rules
Athens may require off-street parking for STR guests. Parking rules protect neighborhood character and are locally enforced.
Athens STR Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsOccupancy Limits
Athens limits the number of guests allowed in short-term rental properties. Occupancy caps are typically based on bedroom count or square footage to protect neighborhood quality of life.
Athens Short-Term Rental Occupancy Limits
Some RestrictionsInsurance Requirements
Athens may require hosts to carry liability insurance for short-term rental properties. Minimum coverage amounts vary by jurisdiction.
Athens Short-Term Rental Insurance Rules
Some RestrictionsNight Caps
Under the Title 9 amendments adopted February 6, 2024, Home Occupation STRs in single-family zoning districts may operate no more than 30 nights per calendar year. Commercial STRs and STRs in non-residential zones are not subject to a night cap. Pre-existing non-owner-occupied STRs in residential zones must phase out within two years.
Athens-Clarke STR Night Caps
Heavy RestrictionsRegistration Rules
Athens-Clarke County requires every short-term rental to be approved as either a Home Occupation STR (owner-occupant or long-term tenant, one structure per parcel) or a Commercial STR (Special Use Permit and plans review) under the Title 9 amendments adopted Feb 6, 2024. Operators must also obtain a Business Occupation Tax Certificate from Finance and collect the 7% local hotel-motel excise tax remitted by the 20th of each month.
Athens-Clarke STR Registration Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Clarke County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Athens city rules.
Short-Term Rentals in Clarke County →