Georgia Renters: Rules for Airbnb and Short-Term Sublets

If you're renting a home or apartment in Georgia and thinking about offering your place as an Airbnb or short-term rental, it’s important to understand what state law allows. Short-term subletting—a rental of less than 30 days—raises unique questions of consent, responsibility, and even eviction risks. Here’s what every Georgia renter should know to stay compliant and avoid costly surprises.

What Counts as a Short-Term Rental or Airbnb Sublet?

"Short-term rental" in Georgia usually refers to renting your leased unit out—often through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO—for less than 30 consecutive days. These arrangements might seem like a way to earn extra money but can have major legal consequences if you’re a renter, not the property owner.

Is Subletting or Airbnb Allowed for Georgia Renters?

Georgia rental law does not grant tenants an automatic right to sublet or offer a unit as a short-term rental. Instead, your lease agreement—and your landlord’s consent—are key.

• Check your lease first: Many leases in Georgia prohibit subletting or require landlord approval.
• If your lease is silent or unclear, you must get the landlord’s written consent before subletting or listing your unit on a short-term rental platform.
• Violating your lease by subletting without approval can be grounds for eviction under Georgia law.

For more details, refer to the Georgia Code on Landlord and Tenant relationships.^[1]

Steps to Take Before Listing Your Unit

To avoid legal trouble, follow these steps if you’re considering subletting your rental or offering it as an Airbnb:

• Read your lease agreement carefully for any subletting or short-term rental clause.
• Contact your landlord or property manager in writing to ask for permission.
• If your landlord approves, get written consent and keep a copy for your records.
• Ensure any sublet agreement aligns with Georgia’s landlord-tenant laws and your lease terms.

If you sublet or list on Airbnb without permission, you risk eviction—even if your building allows short-term rentals for owners.

City and County Rules: Check Local Laws Too

In addition to state law, many cities and counties in Georgia regulate Airbnb and short-term rentals. For example, Atlanta and Savannah both require hosts to register and get permits. Failing to follow these local rules can result in fines or further penalties, even if your landlord says yes.

For official city rules, visit:

• Atlanta Short-Term Rental License
• Savannah Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Key Georgia Forms for Renters Subletting or Sharing Housing

While Georgia doesn’t have a statewide, official “Form” just for subletting, certain documents are essential for protecting your rights—and following the law:

• Written Landlord Consent Letter: Tenants should request and obtain landlord approval in writing before subletting or listing on Airbnb. This protects you from claims of lease violation.
• Rental Agreement Addendum (if required): This is a supplemental contract between you, your landlord, and the new subtenant. It should outline rights, limits, and responsibilities. Find templates from city agencies or create a custom agreement based on your lease terms.
• Notice to Vacate (Georgia—No Official Number): If your landlord discovers an unauthorized sublet, they may issue a written notice to quit. Tenants should respond promptly. Example forms and notice requirements are explained in the Georgia Self-Help Eviction Guide.^[2]

Practical example: If your lease says "no subletting without approval" and you want to use Airbnb for a weekend, you must first send your landlord a written request (email or letter), then get their consent in writing. If the landlord says no, you legally cannot sublet or host a guest on a short-term basis.

What Happens If You Sublet Without Permission?

Renters who sublet, list on Airbnb, or provide short-term stays without landlord approval may face the following:

• Lease termination or eviction proceedings
• Loss of security deposit
• Potential liability for property damages

Eviction cases in Georgia are handled by the Georgia Magistrate Court in your local county.^[3]

Which Law Governs Tenancy in Georgia?

Georgia’s main statute for renters and landlords is the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7).^[1] It covers all rules on leases, subletting, evictions, and notice requirements.

FAQ: Airbnb and Subletting for Georgia Renters

1. Can I sublet my apartment in Georgia through Airbnb?
   Only with written landlord approval and if your lease permits it. Unauthorized subletting is grounds for eviction.
2. What happens if I sublet without landlord consent?
   Your landlord may terminate your lease and begin eviction through Georgia Magistrate Court. Always seek permission first.
3. Does Georgia have an official sublet form?
   No statewide form exists. Use a signed landlord consent letter and any sublease addendum that meets your lease and local requirements.
4. Are city Airbnb rules separate from state law?
   Yes—the city or county may require separate registration or permits in addition to landlord approval. Always check both.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Renters do not have an automatic right to sublet or rent on Airbnb in Georgia—landlord permission is required.
• Eviction is possible if you sublet without approval, even for short stays.
• Always check your lease, communicate with your landlord, and follow both state and local regulations before considering a short-term rental.

By understanding these steps, you can avoid legal issues and make informed rental decisions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Magistrate Court: Eviction Proceedings
• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook (GA Dept. of Community Affairs)
• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Law (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7)
• Contact your local city or county code enforcement office for Airbnb and short-term rental registration requirements.

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1. Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7), full text here
2. Georgia Magistrate Court Self-Help Eviction Guide, read the official guide (PDF)
3. Georgia Magistrate Court - Official Evictions Process

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