According to the Georgia Government website, the state broke tourism records for the second consecutive year in 2023. It welcomed 171 million visitors, an increase of 5 million from 2022. Visitors also spent $43.6 billion during their trips here.
Wouldn't it be nice if you could also generate income from the state's booming tourism industry? Luckily, you can by renting out your property in Greensboro, GA, to vacationers.
Before you get excited, though, you must learn about the city's legal considerations for vacation rentals. PMI Oconee's experts have shared what you need to know, so read on.
Zoning Restrictions for Greensboro STRs
According to the Greene County Government, short-term rentals (STRs) are properties rented for 30 days or less. Zoning laws apply to these properties, which must be:
- Within the Short-Term Rental Overlay District or
- Qualified under Greene County Ordinances section 7.19.3.3
To determine whether your property is within the STR Overlay District, search for it via the Greene County Assessor website.
Short-Term Rental Business License Required
Licensing is one of the most critical vacation rental regulations in Greensboro. Per the County Government, all STRs must have a current Greene County Short-Term Rental Business License. Please ensure you apply for the STR Business License before marketing and renting your property to vacationers.
You must also renew your STR Business License annually. Per Greene County Ordinances section 7.19.15.3, non-compliance can result in a penalty of $1,000 a day.
Real estate lawyers and professionals can provide legal advice for rental owners and STR laws in Greensboro, GA. So, consider consulting with one. They can help ensure your vacation rental home complies with all applicable rules and regulations.
Tax-Related Greensboro Rental Property Laws
Once you rent your Greensboro property as an STR, you must also file a personal property tax return. You must do so with the Greene County Board of Assessors. Personal property includes everything movable inside and outside your short-term rental property.
Injury and Property Damage Liability Considerations
As Investopedia.com notes, most homeowners insurance policies don't cover STRs. So, if a guest gets injured on your property or damages any part of your rental, you'll likely be liable for the legal and financial consequences. Avoid this costly mistake by purchasing a host liability and home-sharing insurance policy.
Don't Forget About Property Maintenance
Whether rented out short-term or long-term, compliance for rental homes in GA includes safety and habitability considerations. For example, properties with the following characteristics violate Green County's Enforced Ordinances:
- Leaking, decayed, or damaged roof
- In disrepair or dilapidated
- Have paint flaking or peeling all over
- Contain electrical hazards
Lower your risks of violations and ensure your rental remains safe and habitable with timely property maintenance and repairs.
Keep These Greensboro Legal Considerations for Vacation Rentals in Mind
Zoning restrictions, rental licenses, mandatory taxes, and property maintenance are some of the most crucial legal considerations for vacation rentals in Greensboro, GA.
If they seem too complex, don't worry; our vacation rental property management company, PMI Oconee, can help. We're one of the fastest-growing property management franchises in the country and a proud member of PMI, a company that's been changing and improving the property management sector for over twenty years.
So, call us today to learn more about what we can do to help make your vacation rental business a success!
