Airbnb Rental Laws and Regulations Blue Ridge, GA

How does Blue Ridge, GA define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?

• A residential dwelling unit for one family where guests receive lodging in exchange for compensation. 
• A public transient dwelling that is rented for more than 14 calendar days per year, in which guests stay for 30 days or less. 

In this context, the terms “Short-Term Rental” and Vacation rental” are used interchangeably.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Can investors own more than one vacation rental property in Blue Ridge, GA?  

Yes, in Blue Ridge, Georgia, there’s no requirement for a vacation rental to be the primary residence, and there are no limits on the number of short-term (Airbnb) rentals an investor can own and manage. 

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Does the Blue Ridge, GA market have any zoning restrictions for STRs?

Yes, there are zoning restrictions for STRs in Blue Ridge, GA. Short term rentals are prohibited in the city limits except for properties located within the Central Business District or those with commercial zoning. However, rentals in unincorporated Fannin County are not affected by this regulation.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

In Blue Ridge, Georgia can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity? 

Yes, in Blue Ridge, Georgia, there are no restrictions preventing an investor from owning and operating their Airbnb property as a business entity. Each property, however, must comply with local regulations, including any licensing or zoning requirements.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

In Blue Ridge, GA, can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as Vacation Rentals?

Yes, investors can register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals. However, they must comply with any local regulations and zoning requirements, and it’s always important to verify with local authorities to ensure full compliance.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

What is Blue Ridge, Georgia’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?

To obtain a Vacation Rental Certificate in Blue Ridge, Georgia, the following must be submitted:

• A completed and notarized 3-page application.
• Letter of Agency, if applicable.
• A signed and notarized SAVE Affidavit.
• Either a signed and notarized E-Verify Affidavit (if you have more than 10 employees) or an E-Verify Exemption Affidavit.
• A copy of a valid Georgia Driver’s License or other acceptable Secure & Verifiable Document of the owner or agent.
• An application fee of $100.00.

Source: City of Blue Ridge short term vacation rental certificate information

What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Blue Ridge, GA?

The main costs associated with obtaining a Vacation Rental Certificate in Blue Ridge, Georgia are an initial application fee of $100.00 and a $25 rental certificate fee for each property. 

Source: City of Blue Ridge short term vacation rental certificate information

Does Blue Ridge, GA have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?

Yes, Blue Ridge, Georgia does enforce occupancy limits on vacation rentals. These limits are typically dependent on the size and structure of the rental property. It is crucial for hosts and guests to comply with these regulations as exceeding the specified maximum occupancy can result in legal ramifications, including potential fines or even eviction. No additional guests are permitted beyond the stated accommodation capacity of the property for both safety reasons and in accordance with local law.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Does Blue Ridge, GA require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?

To obtain a Short-Term (Airbnb) Rental (STR) license in Blue Ridge, GA, investors are not mandated to undergo an inspection for their property at the state level. The main requirement at the state level is to register with the Georgia Department of Revenue. This registration allows the investor to duly pay sales and hotel-motel taxes, which are integral to running an Airbnb or other vacation rental business in Georgia.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Does Blue Ridge, Georgia have any responsible agent requirements?

No, Blue Ridge, Georgia does not have specific responsible agent requirements stated in their Airbnb rental regulations. However, it’s usually recommended that there be a local contact or responsible agent available to handle any issues or complaints that might arise during a guest’s stay. This person is typically expected to be available 24/7 and able to respond promptly to any problems. 

Source: City of Blue Ridge short term vacation rental certificate information

Does Blue Ridge, GA have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?

At the moment, there are no specific insurance requirements for vacation rentals in Blue Ridge, Georgia due to the state’s lenient regulations on short-term rentals. However, despite the lack of formal requirements, it is always recommended for vacation rental owners to carry appropriate insurance coverage. This can protect them from potential financial losses related to property damage, injuries, or other liabilities associated with hosting guests. 

Source: City of Blue Ridge short term vacation rental certificate information

What are the duration and renewal terms of a Blue Ridge, Georgia Vacation Rental license?

In Blue Ridge, Georgia, a Vacation Rental License is valid for a duration of one year. After this period, the license needs to be renewed. It’s crucial to apply for the renewal before the expiration of the current license to ensure continuous compliance with local regulations.

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

In Blue Ridge, GA, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes that the host must track and pay directly to Blue Ridge, Georgia?

For Blue Ridge, Georgia, both Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit state lodging taxes on behalf of their short-term (Airbnb) rental hosts. These taxes are then paid to the state’s Department of Revenue. As such, vacation rental operators don’t need to worry about registering with the Department of Revenue or filing sales tax returns themselves. 

Source: City of Blue Ridge Short-Term Rental Ordinance

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Blue Ridge, GA Vacation Rentals?

Planning, Zoning, Tax and Licensing Clerk: cmortimer@cityofblueridgega.gov & 706-632-2091 Ext. 2

Are there any new laws and regulations that the city is requiring?

At the time of the most recent review by Get Chalet, no new laws or regulations were identified that the city of Blue Ridge, Georgia, is requiring for vacation rentals. However, laws and regulations can change, and it is always important for hosts to stay informed about current rules governing their operations.