Overview: STR Status on Tybee Island

Short-term rentals are currently allowed on Tybee Island, but with significant restrictions. The City has implemented a phased approach that dramatically limits STRs in residential areas. The city does not issue new STR certificates for properties located in R-1, R-1B, or R-2 zoning districts, which constitute approximately 80% of the island's residential areas. Existing STRs in these districts are being phased out through attrition, meaning no new certificates are issued and existing ones cannot be transferred upon property sale.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Tybee Island

Step 1: Zoning Verification

Before proceeding with any STR investment, verify that your property is NOT located in R-1, R-1B, or R-2 zoning districts. The city explicitly states that new STR certificates will not be issued for properties in these residential zones. Check zoning at: Chatham County Tax Assessor

Step 2: Application Process

For properties outside restricted residential zones:

1. Submit STR New/Renewal Application during the annual application period
2. Applications for 2025 are accepted January 1 - March 31, 2025
3. Applications are processed first-come, first-served
4. Current certificates remain valid during renewal processing

Step 3: Annual Requirements

• STR certificates are valid January 1 - December 31 each year
• Must renew annually by March 31st
• If using a manager/management company, they can complete applications on your behalf with proper authorization

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Required Documents:

1. STR New/Renewal Application (for 2025)
2. Occupational Tax Certificate (OTC) Application or Exemption Form
3. Authorization Letter (if using manager/property management company)

Permits and Licenses:

Short-Term Rental Certificate

• Base Fee: $200.00
• Additional Occupancy Fees:
  • 1-5 persons: $10.00 per person
  • 6-10 persons: $15.00 per person
  • More than 10 persons: $20.00 per person

Occupational Tax Certificate

• Fee: $135.00
• May qualify for exemption if property is not considered a business (only rental activity)
• Must be renewed annually by March 31st

Maximum Occupancy Calculation

Maximum occupancy = 2 adults per bedroom + 2 additional adults

Signage Requirements:

One- or Two-Family Units:

• Sign size: Minimum 18" x 24", maximum 24" x 24"
• Location: Address side of property
• Must be legible and visible from street
• Include: Name and emergency contact phone number

Multi-Family Units:

• Sign size: 8½" x 11"
• Location: Publicly accessible area outside unit
• Must be legible and visible
• Include: Name and emergency contact phone number

Specific Regulations for Tybee Island

Zoning Restrictions

• No new STR certificates for properties in R-1, R-1B, or R-2 zoning districts
• Existing STRs in these zones cannot be transferred upon property sale
• Properties must be outside these restricted residential zones

Tax Obligations

• 7% local Occupational Room Tax due monthly
• Monthly tax returns required even if no taxes due
• Payment deadline: 20th day of following month
• No taxes due returns can be emailed to gail.perry@cityoftybee.gov

Operational Guidelines

Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM Occupancy Limits: Must not exceed posted limits; only registered guests allowed Parking: Must not exceed designated spaces; blocking neighboring driveways results in towing Pet Restrictions:

• Leash law enforcement (dogs must be on leashes when outside)
• No pets allowed on beaches
• City fines up to $280 per incident for violations

Prohibited Activities

• Prom groups, large events, receptions at STR properties
• Outdoor amplified music/speakers
• Motor homes, campers, tents on STR properties
• Charcoal grilling on decks (fire hazard)
• Indoor smoking (in most properties)
• Glass containers on beaches

Contact Information for Local STR Authority

STR Help and Applications

Email: strhelp@cityoftybee.gov
Phone: 912-472-5089

STR Complaints

Business Hours (8:00 AM - 8:00 PM): Email: strhelp@cityoftybee.gov
Phone: 912-472-5089

After Hours (10:00 PM - 8:00 AM): Email: strhelp@cityoftybee.gov
Phone: 912-786-5600

Code Compliance Department

Physical Address:
1509 Strand Ave.
Tybee Island, GA 31328

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 2749
Tybee Island, GA 31328

Finance Department (Tax Payments)

Email: gail.perry@cityoftybee.gov (for room tax returns with no taxes due)

General City Information

Phone: 912-786-4573
Address: P.O. Box 2749, 403 Butler Avenue, Tybee Island, GA 31328

Links to Source Pages

Official City Resources:

• City of Tybee STR Information
• STR FAQ Page
• Not Yet Codified Ordinances
• Monthly Room Tax Return Form
• Property Zoning Verification

News Sources:

• Savannah Morning News: STR Ordinance Passage
• WJCL News: STR Ban Details

Local Resources:

• Southern Belle Vacation Rentals Good Neighbor Guide

Important Note for Investors: The regulatory environment on Tybee Island is restrictive for residential STRs. The city has clearly indicated its preference to phase out STRs in residential neighborhoods through its June 2024 ordinance. Investment decisions should be made with the understanding that the regulatory framework is likely to become more restrictive rather than more permissive in residential areas.