Savannah allows short term rentals, although there are several zoning ordinances in place and owners should research their individual requirements based on the district and ward their property is located in. The latest ordinance passed in 2017, established a certification process, a 20% ward cap (which limits the number of approved vacation rentals to 20% of the parcels in a ward in residential zoning districts) and method for taxing and licensing the rentals. A short-term vacation rental is defined as the rental of an entire dwelling unit for 30 days or less in exchange for money. Owners and hosts entering this market should pay close attention to compliance and work directly with their Community Development Department.
- Owners should apply for a Short Term Vacation Rental Certificate (STVR)
- Owners will need to make sure the ward their property is located in is not full, there are currently only 6 wards that are not full. There are waiting lists owners can sign up for.
- STVR are occupancy restricted, no more than 2 adults per bedroom and the local government does have the authority to inspect to ensure a STVR is in compliance.
- Owners must report a change in rental agent within five business days.
- Exemplar Rental Agreements must be provided with the application to rent the STVR, as well as posted in the property at all times.
- Advertising – The STVR certificate number and the Exemplar Rental Agreement must be included in any advertising of the STVR, in print or digitally.
- Proof of insurance
