Short-Term Rental Rules in Decatur, GA (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is permitted in Decatur, GA. Hosts need a short-term rental permit starting in 2026 [3].
Do you need a permit or license?
All short-term rentals will need to be registered by 2026. The process requires public notification of the Short-Term Rental Application for 15 days prior to the issuance of a license [3]. An annual permit costs $125 and must be paid at time of submission [3]. Hosts must post a copy of the permit and relevant rental standards within six feet of the front door and include these standards in all rental agreements [3].
Taxes
Innkeepers must charge a state hotel-motel fee of $5.00 per night unless exempted or excluded. This applies if the rental is facilitated through a marketplace innkeeper [1]. Sales tax is also due on the rental price [1].
Limits and restrictions
Maximum overnight occupancy is two people per guest room, plus two additional people, with a maximum of ten people [3]. Daytime guests must not exceed four additional persons or fourteen total, whichever is less [3]. Only one dwelling unit in duplexes or flats may be used for short-term rental at a time [3]. Noise restrictions prohibit amplified outdoor sound from DJs or bands, except household speakers [3]. Recycling and refuse storage bins must be stored within screened storage areas [3]. A local designated property manager must be available 24/7 and able to arrive at the property within one hour [3].
Penalties
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
How to apply
All applications must be submitted online through the permitting portal [3]. The necessary forms and the $125 fee must be completed and paid at the time of submission [3].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit needed | Yes, starting in 2026 [3]. |
| Permit cost | $125 annually [3]. |
| Taxes | State hotel-motel fee $5/night [1]. |
| Max occupancy | 10 overnight guests [3]. |
| Noise | Outdoor amplified sound restricted [3]. |
| Application | Online only [3]. |
FAQ
What is the maximum overnight occupancy for a short-term rental?
The maximum is ten people [3].
How do I apply for a short-term rental permit?
Applications are through the online permitting portal [3].
What are the local noise restrictions for short-term rentals?
Outdoor amplified sound is restricted to household speakers only [3].
Running a rental in Decatur
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- GA R&R - GAC - Subject 560-13-2 STATE HOTEL-MOTEL FEE (official)
- Business License | Decatur GA
- Short Term Rentals | Decatur GA
Last checked: October 6, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.