Savannah Zoning & Permits

Can I build an ADU or convert a carriage house in Savannah's Historic District?

Yes — carriage house conversion is actually the preferred ADU typology in Savannah's Historic District. The ward square plan historically included rear carriage houses accessed from lane systems, making ADU conversions contextually appropriate and consistent with Oglethorpe's original design. You need both a City of Savannah building permit and a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC). Pre-application consultation with MPC staff is strongly recommended. Expect 8-12 weeks for Historic District ADU permitting.

What is the Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) and when do I need one in Savannah?

A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is required from the Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) for all exterior alterations, new construction, demolitions, and signage in the Historic District. This includes adding ADUs, fences, sheds, decks, and even changing paint colors on street-facing facades. The MPC reviews applications against its Historic District Design Standards. COA review is separate from — and in addition to — standard building permits from Savannah Development Services. Allow 6-10 weeks for COA review on top of standard building permit timelines.

Are short-term rentals allowed in Savannah?

Yes. Savannah requires a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) license ($150/year) from the Savannah Revenue Department. Your property must pass a life safety inspection before the license is issued. You must designate a Responsible Party available 24/7 within 30 miles. Georgia state hotel/motel tax (5%), Chatham County tax, and Savannah hotel/motel tax apply — Airbnb collects and remits these. Savannah's tourism economy generates very high STR demand, particularly in the Historic District during St. Patrick's Day, SCAD events, and summer tourist season.

What are the rules for removing Live Oak trees in Savannah?

Live Oak removal on private property in Savannah requires a Tree Removal Permit from Savannah Development Services. Live Oaks are protected citywide as a signature element of Savannah's landscape character. Permit issuance typically requires evidence of hazard (certified arborist report) or genuine hardship. Approved removals require replacement plantings. Street trees and trees in the park squares are city-owned and maintained — private owners cannot remove these. Savannah's canopy of Spanish moss-draped Live Oaks is legally and culturally protected.

Does Georgia have a statewide ADU preemption law?

No. Georgia has no statewide ADU preemption law — each city and county sets its own ADU rules. Unlike California (AB 68/AB 881) or North Carolina (HB 488), Georgia municipalities retain full authority over ADU regulations. Savannah's local ADU provisions come entirely from its Zoning Ordinance. Atlanta, Augusta, and other Georgia cities have different ADU rules. Always verify with the specific municipality's planning department rather than assuming state uniformity.

What special considerations apply to construction in Savannah's flood zones?

Savannah has extensive flood risk from tidal creeks, marsh interfaces, and low-lying terrain across Chatham County. Many residential properties — especially in barrier island communities, Tybee Island, and marsh-adjacent neighborhoods — fall within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zones AE or VE). Construction in flood zones requires an elevation certificate, and finished floor elevations must be at or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). V zones (coastal high-hazard areas) have additional structural requirements including breakaway walls, open foundations, and wind uplift standards. Contact Savannah Development Services floodplain management staff before any construction in low-lying areas.