Short-Term Rental Rules in Savannah, GA (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Savannah, GA, but hosts must follow specific regulations, including obtaining a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) Certificate. This involves local tax obligations and compliance with building and safety codes.
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, hosts need a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate and a business tax certificate to rent out their property short-term [1][2][3]. The STVR certificate is non-transferable and must be renewed annually by December 31 [2][3].
Taxes
STVRs are subject to all applicable state and local taxes, including the hotel/motel tax [2][3]. The hotel/motel taxes must be remitted monthly to the City’s Revenue Department [2][4].
Limits and restrictions
Short-term vacation rentals are defined as accommodations rented for periods not exceeding 30 consecutive days [1][2][3]. The occupancy is restricted to no more than two adults per bedroom, plus two additional adults per rental unit [2][3]. A property owner must designate a short-term vacation rental agent who is responsible for handling any problems arising from the rental [1][2].
Penalties
Failure to secure an STVR certificate will result in city enforcement actions, which may include legal action, fines, or revocation of the certificate after three violations within 12 months [2][3].
How to apply
To apply for a Short-Term Vacation Rental Certificate, hosts must submit a completed application, agent certification, a sworn code compliance form, a written exemplar agreement, proof of ownership, insurance, and a non-refundable fee [2][3]. The initial application fee is $300, with renewals costing $150 [2][3]. Applications should be submitted to the Tourism Management & Ambassadorship Department [2][3].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Certificate Requirement | Required for all short-term rentals [1][2]. |
| Non-transferrable | Certificates are non-transferrable [2]. |
| Occupancy | Max 2 adults per bedroom, plus 2 more adults per unit [2][3]. |
| Taxes | Must remit hotel/motel tax monthly [2][4]. |
| Penalties for Violations | Include fines and certificate revocation after 3 violations [2][3]. |
FAQ
What is the definition of a short-term vacation rental in Savannah?
A short-term vacation rental is an accommodation for transient guests for lodging not exceeding 30 consecutive days [1][2].
Is the short-term vacation rental certificate transferable if I sell my property?
No, the STVR certificate is non-transferable [2][3].
What are the parking requirements for short-term vacation rentals?
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
Running a rental in Savannah
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- CHAPTER 11. - SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTALS17 (official)
- City of Savannah (official)
- City of Savannah (official)
- Local & State Taxes | Savannah, GA - Official Website (official)
Last checked: October 4, 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.