Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Richmond County, GA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Richmond County, GA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (defined as 'tourist houses' for stays less than 120 days) are allowed in specific residential zones such as R-3A and R-3B. In some zones, they are permitted by right, while in others, they require a Special Exception from the Planning Commission. 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.

Short-term rentals (defined as 'tourist houses' for stays less than 120 days) are allowed in specific residential zones such as R-3A and R-3B. In some zones, they are permitted by right, while in others, they require a Special Exception from the Planning Commission.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Richmond County. 1. Verify property zoning to determine if a 'tourist house' is a permitted use or requires a Special Exception. 2. If a Special Exception is required, apply through the Augusta-Richmond County Planning Commission. 3. Obtain a business license from the Planning & Development department prior to beginning operations.

1. Verify property zoning to determine if a 'tourist house' is a permitted use or requires a Special Exception. 2. If a Special Exception is required, apply through the Augusta-Richmond County Planning Commission. 3. Obtain a business license from the Planning & Development department prior to beginning operations.

Vrbo is permitted in Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.