New Regulations on Short-Term Rentals in Hall County
In March 2019, Hall County passed new regulations and guidelines that will directly impact homeowners with short-term rentals, including those renting their property on sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. The goal is to create fair and enforceable guidelines when it comes to vacation rentals in our area.
The Hall County Board of Commissioners approved a new set of rules for vacation rentals that will require property owners to register with the county or face substantial penalties. Hall County was only the second county in Georgia to implement county-specific regulations for these types of rentals.
Overview of New Rules
- Rental owners must have a local contact person (21 or older) registered with the county.
- This contact must be available 24/7 and must respond to complaints within one hour.
- Rental guests must have a “responsible person” onsite over the age of 25 years. This person will be legally responsibly for ensuring all occupants and guests of the property comply with county laws and regulations.
- Homes must be rented out for a minimum of two nights.
- All rental owners must agree and comply with regulations in advance.
- A business license is required for each home rented in the county and is to be renewed annually.
- You can see a full breakdown of the changes and regulations in the Hall County Short-Term Rental Owner guidebook.
Where do I start?
To safely and legally operate a short-term rental property, you need to follow these three steps:
- Obtain a short-term rental zoning affidavit at the Planning Department.
- Schedule a property inspection at the Building Inspections Office ($75).
- Schedule a property inspection with the Fire Marshal’s Office (only if your occupancy is 16 or more).
- Obtain a business license. This will include registering your business with the IRS, obtaining a sales tax number, and completing the license registration form.
How can we help?
The Carr Law Group has a team of experienced and knowledgeable real estate attorneys. Our team can help ensure that you are up to date and compliant with the city, county, and HOA/POA regulations for your rental property. We can help ensure that all required steps are taken and that you have a management agreement prepared to protect you and your property.
If you manage an Airbnb, Vrbo, or other short-term property, The Carr Law Group can help you:
- Set up an LLC;
- Establish a business license and become compliant with county regulations;
- Provide insight on sales tax for the county and state;
- Forme management contracts and agreements.
What if I don’t live in Hall County?
Several counties in northeast Georgia have adopted guidelines and ordinances related to short-term rentals. However, the legal protections, such as obtaining an LLC and the formation of a management agreement, are applicable across Georgia.
Schedule A Free Consultation
Need help determining whether your property is in compliance with your city or county’s short-term rental ordinance or worried you are violating your HOA covenants or restrictions? Give us a call and we can help you sort through the red tape that can make or break your investment property.