Mobile Home Lot Fees: Costs & Rules for Renters in Georgia

If you rent a space in a mobile home park in Georgia, you’ll likely pay a monthly lot fee in addition to rent on your manufactured or mobile home. Understanding how these fees work, the typical costs involved, and your legal protections as a renter is crucial to avoid surprise expenses or disputes. This guide explains Georgia’s approach to mobile home lot fees, your rights, and resources for support.

What Is a Lot Fee in a Georgia Mobile Home Park?

A lot fee (also called a lot rent or pad rental) is the charge paid for the right to place and occupy your manufactured or mobile home on a property owned by someone else. In Georgia, these are most common in mobile home parks, where the resident owns the home but rents the land itself from the park operator.

• The lot fee covers your use of the land, and often includes utilities like water, sewage, or trash, but every contract is different.
• Payment is typically monthly. The amount varies based on location, park amenities, and included services.
• Lot fees are set by the landlord or park owner, but must follow state and federal laws on notice and rent changes.

Typical Costs of Mobile Home Lot Fees in Georgia

As of 2024, Georgia mobile home lot fees usually range from $300 to $700 per month. The cost can depend on factors like:

• Location—urban vs. rural areas
• Park amenities (e.g., pool, clubhouse, security)
• Whether utilities are included in the fee

Always review your lease to understand exactly what services are covered by your lot fee.

Your Rights and Protections Regarding Lot Fees

Your lot fee agreement is governed by Georgia’s landlord-tenant laws and federal manufactured housing rules. You should always receive written notice on:

• Initial and recurring lot fee amounts
• Any changes or proposed increases
• What services (if any) are included in your lot fee

Unlike some states, Georgia does not have rent control or a state-level rent review board. However, state law clarifies minimum notice periods for fee increases or lease changes¹.

Notice for Lot Fee Increases

• You must receive at least 60 days’ advance written notice prior to any increase in your lot fee if you are on a month-to-month agreement.
• For fixed-term leases, changes generally cannot take effect until the lease is up unless otherwise specified in writing.

Read more on Georgia’s official tenant rights resource.

If You Disagree with a Lot Fee Increase

If you believe your landlord has not provided proper notice, or if the fee increase is not allowed under your lease:

• First, address your concerns in writing to the landlord or mobile home park operator.
• If unresolved, you may file a formal complaint or seek mediation through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
• You can also consider filing a civil action in your county’s Magistrate Court.

Official Forms Related to Mobile Home Lot Fees

• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (No number): Used if you have an unresolved dispute or believe your rights have been violated. Example: If your park owner raises your lot fee without proper notice, you can use this form to request an investigation. Get the official Georgia Tenant Complaint Form.
• Notice to Terminate Tenancy Form (No number): To notify the landlord if you plan to move out due to fee increases or other lease violations. Example: Submitting this form ensures you provide the legally required notice to terminate your lease. Download the official notice form here.

The Magistrate Court of your county is the tribunal responsible for handling residential landlord-tenant disputes in Georgia. Find your local court using the Magistrate Court locator.

Relevant Legislation for Renters in Georgia

Lot fee arrangements fall under the Georgia Landlord and Tenant Code (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7).¹

FAQs: Mobile Home Lot Fees in Georgia

1. Do lot fees include utilities in Georgia mobile home parks?
   Some parks include certain utilities (like water, sewer, or trash) in the lot fee, while others bill separately. Check your lease for specifics.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before raising the lot fee?
   For month-to-month tenants, state law requires at least 60 days’ written notice. Longer leases generally require the notice terms set in the contract.
3. Can my landlord evict me for not paying a lot fee?
   Yes, non-payment of the lot fee may be grounds for eviction, but the landlord must follow Georgia’s official eviction process and notice requirements.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I think my rights are being violated?
   You can file a formal complaint with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs or your local Magistrate Court if you have unresolved disputes.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Mobile Home Lot Fee Renters

• Lot fees cover your right to use land in a mobile home park and are set by the landlord.
• Georgia law requires at least 60 days’ written notice for most fee increases.
• Keep all communications in writing and use official forms if you wish to dispute a charge or terminate your tenancy.

Understanding your lot fee and legal rights is the best way to avoid disputes and safeguard your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• GeorgiaLegalAid.org: Landlord-Tenant Law Overview
• Find Your Local Magistrate Court

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1. Georgia Landlord and Tenant Code (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7)

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