Permit Requirements: Atlanta vs Roswell
How do permit requirements rules compare between Atlanta, GA and Roswell, GA?
Atlanta and Roswell have similar restriction levels.
Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta requires a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) for all rentals under 30 days. The annual fee is $150. One license covers a host's primary residence and one additional dwelling unit. Enforcement began March 2022.
View full Atlanta 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 | Atlanta | Roswell |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Atlanta Part 20 (Ord. 20-O-1656) | - |
| License Fee | $150/year | - |
| Coverage | Primary residence + 1 additional unit | - |
| Enforcement Start | March 5, 2023 | - |
| Contact | STR@atlantaga.gov | - |
| 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.
Atlanta FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Atlanta?
Atlanta requires a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) for all rentals under 30 days. The annual fee is $150. One license covers a host's primary residence and one additional dwelling unit. Enforcement began March 2022.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Atlanta?
Code: Atlanta Part 20 (Ord. 20-O-1656). License Fee: $150/year. Coverage: Primary residence + 1 additional unit. Enforcement Start: March 5, 2023.
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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