City of Tybee Island amends short-term vacation rental rules

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - Tybee Island City Council voted on several amendments to its short-term vacation rental ordinance in an effort to balance local tourism with the quality of life for residents.

The changes include dividing the island into sectors and placing caps on short-term rentals in specific areas to allow growth in some zones while protecting others.

Additionally, the updated ordinance requires properties to designate emergency contacts to address issues immediately or face a fine. It is a move that residents hope will help with enforcement and curb violations from property owners.

The new ordinance is set to take effect Jan. 1. City leaders say this will allow property owners and management companies time to comply.

The City of Tybee also plans to hold several public workshops in the coming months to explain the changes.