long term rentals

Compliance for North Georgia

Navigating long-term rental (LTR) rules can feel just as complex—each county and city sets its own requirements for business licensing, taxes, property use, and zoning. This page offers an informational overview of compliance considerations across the regions we serve.*

*Important: Regulations change frequently, and while we work to provide accurate information, the details here may not always reflect the most current updates. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney or qualified legal representative to ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Feature Packages

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Basic Package

Smart, Simple Support
All the essentials you need—booking, guests, and cleanings—handled with care, so you can relax and stay in control.

Included Services:

• Property management

• Booking management

• Guest support (business hours)

• Cleaning coordination

• Inventory & procurement

(basic restocking)

• Monthly financial reporting

Elite Package

Elevated Service, Happy Guests
Designed for owners who want more—smarter support, better reviews, and a seamless guest experience.

Everything in Basic, plus:

• 24/7 guest support

• Channel management

• Emergency coordination

• Feedback management & review

• Travel consulting for guests

• Local market optimization

• Mid-stay cleaning coordination

• Bimonthly reports with insights

Platinum Package

Luxury Management, Zero Stress
A premium, hands-off experience for second-home owners who
expect nothing but the best.

Everything in Elite, plus:

• Full concierge services

• Pre-arrival home stocking

• Luxury add-ons

• VIP guest experiences

• Priority emergency response

• Dedicated account manager

• Real-time financial dashboard

• Quarterly review & consultation

Across Georgia

Business License
- No statewide landlord license.
- Many cities and counties require a business license/occupational tax certificate for ongoing rental operations.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR (≥31 days) are exempt from the $5/night hotel fee and local lodging/accommodation taxes.
- Rental income must be reported for state/federal income tax.
Property Tax
- Annual county and municipal property taxes apply.
- Non-homestead rate if not owner-occupied.
Permits & Zoning
- Must comply with zoning/use ordinances and housing codes.

City of Clayton (Rabun County), GA

Business License
- Required for any ongoing rental operations within city limits.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from hotel-motel and lodging taxes.
- Rental income is taxable.
Property Tax
- City and county ad valorem taxes apply annually.
Permits & Zoning
- Must follow city zoning/use requirements.
- Ensure compliance with minimum housing, fire, and occupancy codes.

Fannin County, GA

Business License
- Not required for individual LTRs.
- City of Blue Ridge may require a business license for multiple-unit rentals.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from lodging/accommodation taxes.
- Income reportable for tax purposes.
Property Tax
- Annual county and municipal property taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- Confirm property is zoned for residential rental use, especially in Blue Ridge.
- Must meet building and safety code requirements.

Gilmer County, GA

Business License
- County does not require for single rentals.
- Ellijay/East Ellijay may require for ongoing rental activity.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from lodging/accommodation taxes.
- Rental income is still taxable.
Property Tax
- Annual property taxes required.
Permits & Zoning
- Rental use must comply with local zoning ordinances.
- Must meet standard housing and fire safety codes.

Habersham County, GA

Business License
- Business license may be required for multiple rental properties or if operating as a business.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from hotel-motel and lodging taxes.
- Income subject to state/federal taxation.
Property Tax
- Annual county/municipal property taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- Rentals must comply with zoning restrictions in residential areas.
Building and fire codes must be observed.

Lumpkin County

Business License
- STR license required, but LTR business license may apply if operating multiple units.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from lodging taxes.
- Rental income taxable.
Property Tax
- Annual county and municipal property taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- LTRs must comply with county zoning laws.
- City of Dahlonega has stricter zoning due to UNG student housing demand.

Towns County, GA

Business License
- STR license required; LTR may require a business license for multiple-unit landlords.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from lodging/accommodation taxes.
- Rental income taxable.
Property Tax
- Annual county taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- Must comply with local zoning restrictions.
- Rental homes must meet housing, health, and fire codes.

Union County, GA

Business License
- STR license required, but LTR exempt unless operating multiple units.
Sales & Lodging Tax
- LTR exempt from lodging/accommodation taxes.
- Income must be reported for tax purposes.
Property Tax
- Annual property taxes apply.
Permits & Zoning
- Rentals must comply with zoning rules.
- Duplexes or multifamily uses may require additional clearance.

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