Tybee Island, Georgia Short Term Rental Regulations

City Code of Ordinances

The City of Tybee Island defines a Short Term Vacation Rental (STVR) as an accommodation rented to a guest for less than 30 days. Such use may or may not include an on-site manager. The occupancy for overnight usage is limited to two adults per bedroom plus two additional adults for the dwelling identified as existing on the property. Any person over the age of 15 years old will be considered an adult for purposes of this section. See the Tybee Island Short Term Vacation Rentals (STVR) Ordinance for more information. 

Business License Requirements

STVR properties should complete an application with the City and must have a tax certificate number (business license) unless a company manages the property with a Tybee Business License. 

Building and Housing Standards

Tybee Island has rules and regulations that specify minimum building, design, maintenance standards, habitability, health, and safety requirements. Some rules and regulations that apply to residential and non-residential properties may apply to your listing. Consult Tybee Island Building Code for more information. 

Tourist and Local Taxes

Short-term vacation rental owners must pay the city's Revenue Department a 7% local hotel/motel tax. The host must pay by the 20th day of the following month. In addition to the city hotel/motel tax, the Georgia Revenue Department must receive the State Use and Sales Tax.

Other Rules

STVR owners and managers agree to advise their guests about local regulations, subdivision rules, and beach ordinances as part of Tybee Island's "Good Neighbor Program." STVR owners and managers shall make every effort to ensure that rental guests' usage of the premises does not disrupt the community or infringe on neighboring property owners' rights to the quiet enjoyment of their properties STVR owners must name a local emergency contact person to contact in the event of a malfunction emergency. The local contact must be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It must be able to respond to concerns about the condition, operation, or behavior of the renter, as well as take corrective measures to resolve issues quickly. It is also essential to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo boards, co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable. Visit the Tybee Island website for more information.