Short-Term Rental Regulations — Georgia
Hosts in Savannah must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $150, renewable Annual. Savannah allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, giving investors and property managers more flexibility. There is no annual day cap on rentals in Savannah. An occupancy tax of 6% applies to all short-term rental income. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit this tax automatically.
Day Limit Notes
Non-owner-occupied capped at 20% of parcels in specific downtown wards.
⚠ Tax Notes
6% Local Hotel/Motel Tax plus 7% State Sales Tax and $5 per night state fee.
⚠ Prohibited Zones
Prohibited outside of the Short-Term Vacation Rental overlay district.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Savannah?
Yes. Savannah requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $150 and must be renewed Annual. You must obtain this permit before listing your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms.
What is the occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Savannah?
Short-term rentals in Savannah are subject to a 6% occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts — you do not need to handle it separately. 6% Local Hotel/Motel Tax plus 7% State Sales Tax and $5 per night state fee.
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in Savannah?
Yes. Savannah allows non-owner-occupied short-term rentals, meaning you can list investment properties or second homes that you do not personally occupy.
How many days per year can I rent my property in Savannah?
Savannah does not impose an annual day cap on short-term rentals. You can rent your property for as many days as you choose, subject to other local regulations. Non-owner-occupied capped at 20% of parcels in specific downtown wards.
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in Savannah?
Yes. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit the 6% occupancy tax in Savannah on behalf of hosts. You do not need to separately collect or remit this tax — it is handled at the platform level.
Are there any prohibited zones for short-term rentals in Savannah?
Yes. Savannah prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: Prohibited outside of the Short-Term Vacation Rental overlay district.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Savannah?
Yes. Savannah requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city. This is separate from any permit requirement and typically involves providing property information and contact details to the local authority.
Official Source
Savannah City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.