Are Airbnb and similar rentals in Georgia covered by tenant laws?

Yes, Georgian tenant protections generally apply to short-term vacation rentals if you have a rental agreement.

How long does a Georgia landlord have to return my deposit?

Your landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out, including an itemized list of deductions.

Can I be evicted from a short-term rental in Georgia without notice?

No, landlords must provide written notice and follow the formal eviction process through Magistrate Court.

What if my vacation rental isn't licensed by the city?

You still have tenant rights under state law, but an unlicensed rental may pose risks. Report problems to local code enforcement as needed.

Where do I file a dispute about my short-term Georgia rental?

Disputes are filed with your county’s Magistrate Court; check the official court finder online.

Georgia Tenant Rights in Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Special Housing Types & Situations Georgia published June 21, 2025

Short-term vacation rentals are becoming more popular in Georgia, especially in cities like Atlanta and Savannah. If you're renting a property for a limited period—such as through Airbnb, Vrbo, or any direct lease—you still have legal rights. This article explains your rights and responsibilities as a renter in a Georgia short-term rental, using clear language and up-to-date state laws.

What Is a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Georgia?

In Georgia, a short-term vacation rental usually refers to a rental agreement for less than 30 consecutive days. These can be single-family homes, apartments, or condominiums. Rentals under traditional lease agreements—even if they're short—may also be subject to Georgia landlord-tenant laws, but some municipal rules may apply specifically to vacation rentals.

Are Short-Term Renters Protected by Georgia Law?

Yes, but with important differences. Georgia’s Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7) covers all residential tenancies, including short-term arrangements, unless excluded by local ordinances or zoning rules.^[1]

Most tenant protections for deposits, basic habitability, and eviction still apply—even for short stays.
If your rental is covered by a municipality's special short-term rental ordinance (like in Savannah or Atlanta), additional rules might limit your length of stay or how you can contest eviction.

Always clarify if you are "renting a room" versus "hotel guest"—these are treated differently under Georgia law and city codes.

Common Short-Term Rental Issues for Georgia Renters

Security Deposits: Georgia law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of damages within three business days of your moving out. They must return the deposit within one month.
Eviction: Even in a short-term rental, you can't be evicted without proper written notice, unless your agreement says otherwise. See details on the Georgia Courts Guide to Eviction Cases.
Right to Quiet Enjoyment: You are entitled to a safe, habitable, and quiet environment while renting, regardless of lease length.

Special Local Ordinances in Georgia

Cities like Atlanta and Savannah have introduced special rules for short-term rentals, such as permit requirements, maximum guest limits, or taxes. If your unit is registered as a "short-term vacation rental," city ordinances may shape your rights. Always ask your host or landlord if the property is officially permitted.

Key Forms for Georgia Short-Term Renters

Demand for Return of Security Deposit: Although there is no statewide form number, you can find a sample "Security Deposit Demand Letter" on the Georgia Legal Aid site. Use this if your landlord fails to return your deposit within 30 days. Send it in writing and keep a copy for your records.
Dispossessory Affidavit (Eviction Complaint): Used by landlords to start the eviction process, but as a renter, if you receive this notice, you should respond promptly to the Magistrate Court. Details and forms can be found on the Georgia Courts Eviction Guide.

Tip: Always put requests and complaints in writing. This creates a record in case you need to dispute charges or actions later.

Which Tribunal Handles Short-Term Tenancy Disputes in Georgia?

Disputes involving short-term vacation rentals are typically handled by your county’s Magistrate Court in Georgia. This court oversees eviction cases ("dispossessory actions"), security deposit disputes, and other housing matters. Always check the local court website for the correct forms and deadline details.

Summary of Georgia’s Renters Law

The most relevant law is the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act. It covers basic rights for all residential renters, including those in short-term arrangements:

Notice requirements for eviction
Deposit return and accounting
Right to habitable premises

FAQ: Georgia Short-Term Vacation Rental Rights

Are Airbnb and similar rentals in Georgia covered by tenant laws?
Yes, as long as you have a rental agreement (even for a month or less), basic Georgian tenant protections generally apply.
How soon must a Georgia landlord return my deposit after a short-term rental?
Georgia law requires all deposits to be returned within 30 days of move-out, with an itemized list of any deductions.
Can I be evicted from a short-term rental in Georgia without notice?
No. Landlords must provide a written notice to quit and then, if not resolved, file for eviction through the Magistrate Court. The process is the same as for longer leases but may move more quickly.
What if my vacation rental is not licensed by the city?
You still hold tenant rights under state and local law, but unlicensed rentals may create legal risks for the landlord. Report issues to the local code enforcement agency or Magistrate Court if needed.
Where do I file a dispute about a Georgia short-term rental?
File complaints and deposit disputes with your county’s Magistrate Court. Find your local court through the official Magistrate Court directory.

Conclusion

Short-term vacation renters in Georgia are protected by the state's landlord-tenant laws for issues like deposits and eviction.
Forms such as security deposit demand letters and Magistrate Court filings are crucial for resolving disputes.
For problems, turn first to your county’s Magistrate Court and always keep written documentation.

Understanding your rights and acting quickly helps protect your interests as a short-term rental tenant in Georgia.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Georgia Magistrate Court Finder – File complaints and get forms for disputes and evictions.
Georgia Legal Aid: Housing Rights – Free legal information and sample letters.
Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (Official Legislation)
Georgia.gov: Landlord and Tenant Rights

^[1] See the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7).