Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Rabun County, GA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Rabun County, GA, but with restrictions. All short-term rentals must hold an active license and designate a local representative or registered agent who must reside in Rabun County if they are the owner. Properties are subject to the Georgia Fire Prevention Code, and licenses can be immediately suspended for violations of these safety standards. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

All short-term rentals must hold an active license and designate a local representative or registered agent who must reside in Rabun County if they are the owner. Properties are subject to the Georgia Fire Prevention Code, and licenses can be immediately suspended for violations of these safety standards.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Rabun County. 1. Complete the Short-Term Rental Application form and pay the required fee. 2. Provide proof of ownership (deed or tax records) and an interior building sketch by floor. 3. Designate a local registered agent/representative who meets residency requirements.

1. Complete the Short-Term Rental Application form and pay the required fee. 2. Provide proof of ownership (deed or tax records) and an interior building sketch by floor. 3. Designate a local registered agent/representative who meets residency requirements.

Vrbo is permitted in Rabun County, GA under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Rabun County are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Rabun County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.