Rental Registration: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do rental registration rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Alpharetta and Atlanta have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta operates a Rental Housing Registration program under Code §54-46. Sandy Springs and South Fulton also require rental registration. Unincorporated Fulton has no rental registry.
View full Alpharetta rules →Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta requires short-term rental properties (stays of less than 30 days) to register and obtain a Short-Term Rental License under Ordinance 18-O-1376 and City Code Chapter 30 (Businesses). Long-term rental properties do not require a specific rental registration with the city, but landlords must obtain a business license if operating rental properties as a business.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta fee | $250/year | - |
| Registry rule | Code §54-46 | - |
| Unincorp. Fulton | No registry | - |
| STR License Required | - | Yes — for rentals under 30 days |
| Long-Term Registration | - | Business license only |
| STR Ordinance | - | Ordinance 18-O-1376; Ch. 30 |
| Local Contact | - | 24/7 contact person required for STRs |
| STR Fine | - | $500–$1,000/day without license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Does Airbnb count as a rental?
STRs have a separate Atlanta license under Part 20.
Do I have to register a single ADU rental?
Yes if it's in Atlanta.
Atlanta FAQ
Do I need to register my rental property in Atlanta?
Short-term rentals (under 30 days) require a Short-Term Rental License from the city. Long-term rentals do not require a specific registration but may need a business tax certificate. All rental properties must meet housing code standards.
What is required for a short-term rental license?
You need proof of ownership or owner authorization, homeowner's insurance, compliance with fire safety and occupancy standards, and a 24/7 local contact person. Apply through the Office of Buildings and pay the annual license fee.
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