Georgia county rules

Franklin County, GA vacation rental rules and taxes

Franklin County’s rentals are mostly Lake Hartwell homes around Lavonia, about 85 listings. We didn’t find the county’s code online or any rental rules in Lavonia’s code; stays owe 7% sales tax and a 5% (county) or 8% (Lavonia) hotel-motel tax.

Checked against official sources November 6, 2026

Market

About 85 listings

Lavonia 85 Airbnb listings (AirROI), plus part of Martin.Source

Sales tax

Hotel-motel tax

5% county; 8% Lavonia; 3% Royston

What to do

Then your city or area
Permits, zoning, and the hotel-motel tax depend on whether you’re inside a city. Pick your area.

Towns

Full guide

Lavonia

We found no short-term rental permit or rules in Lavonia’s code. Stays owe 7% sales tax + 8% hotel-motel tax + $5/night; Airbnb collects these on its bookings.

Full guide

Unincorporated Franklin County

We couldn’t find Franklin County’s code online to check for short-term rental rules. Outside the cities, stays owe 7% sales tax, the county’s 5% hotel-motel tax, and the $5 state fee.

Sources

Georgia Airbnb market data (active listings) · AirROI
Sales and use tax rate chart, effective October 1, 2026 · Georgia Department of Revenue
Hotel/motel excise tax rates and revenue report · Georgia Department of Community Affairs

A plain-language summary to help you prepare, not legal advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the office before you apply. Spot something out of date? Email hello@licensedrental.com.