Atlanta's STR ordinance 16-O-1399 does not require host presence during guest stays, but it limits each owner to one license at a primary residence plus one license at a single non-primary residence, capping investor portfolios.
Atlanta passed Ord. 16-O-1399 in 2021 (effective 2022) creating a license framework for short-term rentals. Hosts do not have to be on-site during stays, distinguishing Atlanta from cities with strict host-occupancy rules. Instead, the ordinance restricts each individual to a maximum of two STR licenses: one at the owner's primary residence and one additional license at a single non-primary residential property. This structure permits whole-home rentals while preventing large investor portfolios from saturating neighborhoods. A local responsible party must be reachable 24/7 to respond to complaints within an hour. HOA covenants in neighborhoods like Buckhead or Virginia-Highland may impose stricter residency rules.
Operating without a designated 24/7 responsible party, or holding more than the two permitted licenses, can result in license denial, suspension, or revocation by the Atlanta Department of City Planning.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta's STR ordinance does not limit licenses to primary residences alone but instead allows each owner one primary-residence license plus one additional l...
Atlanta, GA
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 ...
See how Atlanta's host presence rule rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.