Permit Requirements: Alpharetta vs Roswell
How do permit requirements rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Roswell, GA?
Alpharetta and Roswell have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Unincorporated Fulton County does not run a county-wide short-term rental permit program; STR regulation is set by each Fulton city. Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, and South Fulton each license STRs separately.
View full Alpharetta rules →Roswell, GA
Fulton County
Roswell adopted Ordinance 2024-05-09 (the city's first STR ordinance) effective June 9, 2025, with full enforcement starting January 31, 2026. Operators must register the unit, pay a $35 non-refundable registration fee, carry general commercial liability insurance, and obtain a city business license.
View full Roswell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Roswell |
|---|---|---|
| County permit | None — municipal only | - |
| Atlanta fee | $150/year | - |
| Atlanta cap | Primary residence + 1 unit | - |
| South Fulton | Standard STR permit (no SUP) | - |
| Authority | - | Roswell Ordinance 2024-05-09 |
| Effective Date | - | June 9, 2025 |
| Enforcement Begins | - | January 31, 2026 |
| Registration Fee | - | $35 (non-refundable) |
| Insurance | - | General Commercial Liability required |
| Zoning | - | Not permitted in residential zones |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Does Fulton County itself issue STR permits?
No. Each city has its own framework; the unincorporated county has no STR license.
Can I operate without an Atlanta license?
No — Atlanta enforces licensing under Code Part 20 with fines up to $1,000/day.
Roswell FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Roswell?
Yes. Under Ordinance 2024-05-09 you must register the unit with Roswell, pay a $35 fee, provide liability insurance, and obtain a city business license. Enforcement began January 31, 2026.
Can I run an STR in a Roswell residential neighborhood?
No. The 2024 STR ordinance excludes residential zoning districts. The only allowance is a bed-and-breakfast in the Downtown Historic District.
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