Opening a Sober Living Home in Georgia: Complete Guide [2026]

Opening a sober living home in Georgia requires navigating GARR certification, SB 4 anti-brokering compliance, local zoning ordinances, and a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape that operators must understand before launching. Georgia does not require a state-level license for recovery residences, but local municipalities may have permitting, zoning, or occupancy requirements that you must verify. This guide walks operators through every step of opening and running a compliant, successful sober living home in the Peach State.

Georgia is one of the fastest-growing recovery housing markets in the Southeast, driven by rising demand for substance use disorder treatment and post-treatment transitional living. Whether you are launching your first recovery residence in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, or a smaller community, understanding the regulatory environment, certification process, and operational requirements is essential to long-term success.

For a broader overview of what it takes to launch a recovery residence nationwide, see our complete guide on how to start a sober living home. For a state-by-state breakdown of licensing requirements, visit our sober living home licensing requirements by state resource.

Georgia Sober Living Regulatory Landscape in 2026

As of 2026, Georgia maintains a relatively light regulatory framework for sober living homes compared to states like Florida, California, or Ohio. The state does not have a mandatory state-level licensing or certification program specifically for recovery residences, nor does it maintain a central registry tracking the location and number of sober living homes operating within its borders. However, local municipalities may impose their own licensing, permitting, or operational requirements that operators must research and comply with. This environment is changing — and operators who plan ahead will be better positioned when new requirements arrive.

Senate Bill 4: The First Major Legislation

In July 2021, Georgia’s General Assembly passed Senate Bill 4 (SB 4), which marked the state’s first significant legislative action targeting recovery housing. SB 4 addressed two critical issues that had damaged the reputation of the sober living industry in Georgia:

Anti-patient brokering provisions. SB 4 made it a prosecutable offense for sober living homes to accept or pay “finder’s fees” or “referral fees” for directing residents to specific treatment providers, labs, or other services. This practice, sometimes called “body brokering,” had been exploited by bad actors who prioritized profit over resident well-being.

Fraudulent billing crackdown. The bill also targeted fraudulent insurance billing practices, particularly excessive and medically unnecessary drug testing. Some operators had been ordering frequent urine drug screens primarily to generate insurance revenue rather than to support residents’ recovery.

SB 4 passed the Georgia Senate unanimously, sending a clear signal that lawmakers across party lines view recovery housing accountability as a priority. For operators, the message is straightforward: ethical business practices are not optional, and the state is willing to legislate when the industry fails to self-regulate.

What Comes Next: Expected Regulatory Changes

Consider SB 4 as the first of several legislative actions aimed at reforming how sober living homes operate in Georgia. State lawmakers, including those who sponsored SB 4, have publicly stated their intent to introduce a formal certification process and legal definitions for recovery residences in the state. When (not if) this happens, the Georgia Department of Community Health is the most likely agency to oversee administration and enforcement. The Department already governs Georgia’s mandatory licensing program for addiction treatment providers — entities the state formally refers to as “Drug Abuse Treatment and Education Programs,” or DATEPs.

Georgia Regulatory Timeline

Year	Development	Impact on Operators
Pre-2021	No state-level recovery housing legislation	Operators self-regulate with minimal oversight
July 2021	SB 4 signed into law	Patient brokering and fraudulent billing become prosecutable offenses
2022-2025	GARR grows membership; opioid settlement funds begin flowing	Voluntary certification increasingly tied to funding eligibility
2026	Formal certification legislation expected	Operators already GARR-certified will have a compliance head start

Why Getting Ahead of Regulation Benefits Operators

Operators who voluntarily adopt NARR-aligned standards and pursue GARR certification now will have a significant competitive advantage when mandatory regulation arrives. These operators will already have documented policies, trained staff, compliant physical environments, and established relationships with oversight bodies. Those who wait may face expensive retrofitting, rushed compliance timelines, and potential disruption to operations.

Additionally, many referral sources — treatment centers, courts, probation departments, and insurance networks — already prefer or require GARR-certified recovery residences. Voluntary certification is increasingly becoming a de facto requirement for operators who want access to the best referral pipelines and funding opportunities.

GARR Certification: Georgia’s NARR Affiliate

The Georgia Association of Recovery Residences (GARR) is the NARR state affiliate responsible for certifying recovery residences in Georgia. Established over 30 years ago, GARR has been advocating for ethical and professional operation of sober living homes long before state lawmakers began paying attention to the industry.

For a comprehensive look at the national NARR certification framework that underpins GARR’s standards, visit our NARR certification guide.

NARR Certification Levels

GARR certification follows the national NARR framework, which defines four levels of recovery residence based on the intensity of services and structure provided:

Level 1 — Peer-Run. Democratically run residences with peer-based support. Minimal structure, resident-managed operations, and a focus on mutual accountability. This is the most common model for sober living homes.

Level 2 — Monitored. A designated house manager or senior resident provides oversight. Drug testing, house meetings, and basic accountability structures are in place. Many operators start at this level.

Level 3 — Supervised. Professional staff provide clinical oversight and coordination of care. Residents typically have access to counseling, case management, and structured programming. This level requires more resources and qualified personnel.

Level 4 — Service Provider. The highest level of care, offering comprehensive clinical services within the residential setting. This level often overlaps with licensed treatment facility requirements and is less common for standalone sober living homes.

Most new sober living operators in Georgia will pursue Level 1 or Level 2 certification. As your operation matures and you add services, you can pursue higher certification levels.

NARR Levels at a Glance

Level	Governance	Staffing	Typical Georgia Operator
Level 1 — Peer-Run	Democratic/resident-led	No paid staff	First-time operators, Oxford House model
Level 2 — Monitored	House manager oversight	Paid house manager	Most common for new sober living homes
Level 3 — Supervised	Professional management	Clinical and support staff	Operators with treatment partnerships
Level 4 — Service Provider	Administrative leadership	Licensed clinical professionals	Integrated treatment and housing programs

The GARR Certification Process

GARR provides a structured pathway to certification that includes several key steps:

1. Membership application. Begin by applying for GARR membership and paying applicable fees.
2. Standards review. GARR provides guidance on meeting NARR standards for operations, physical environment, recovery support services, and good neighbor practices.
3. Documentation submission. Submit your policies, procedures, house rules, financial practices, and other documentation demonstrating compliance with NARR standards.
4. Site inspection. GARR conducts a physical inspection of your facility to verify safety, accessibility, and compliance with environmental standards.
5. Mentorship and support. Throughout the process, GARR provides one-on-one mentorship, continuing education, and member meetings to help operators succeed.

The full certification process typically takes 3-6 months from initial application to approval. GARR maintains a database of current members and certification requirements on their website.

Benefits of GARR Certification

• Funding eligibility. Many federal and state grants require or strongly prefer NARR-certified homes. GARR certification is increasingly a prerequisite for accessing SAMHSA grants, opioid settlement funds, and HUD Recovery Housing Program dollars.
• Referral network access. Treatment centers, courts, probation officers, and managed care organizations prefer to refer to certified residences. Certification puts you on preferred provider lists.
• Credibility and trust. Certification demonstrates to residents, families, and the community that your home meets national standards for quality and safety.
• Regulatory readiness. When Georgia introduces mandatory certification (which is expected), GARR-certified homes will already be compliant.
• Peer community. GARR membership connects you with other operators for shared learning, problem-solving, and advocacy.

Step-by-Step: How to Open a Sober Living Home in Georgia

Opening a sober living home involves careful planning across legal, operational, and community dimensions. Here is a step-by-step guide tailored to the Georgia market.

Step 1: Research Your Market

Before committing to a location, study the recovery housing landscape in your target area. Key markets in Georgia include:

• Atlanta metro area — The largest market with the highest demand, but also the most competition and highest property costs. Neighborhoods like Decatur, East Point, and Marietta have established recovery communities.
• Savannah — Growing demand for recovery housing with relatively lower operating costs than Atlanta. The tourism and hospitality industries contribute to substance use challenges that drive demand for recovery services.
• Augusta — Proximity to Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) creates demand for military-connected and veteran-focused recovery housing. The VA Medical Center in Augusta also generates referrals.
• Macon and Columbus — Smaller markets with less competition and lower startup costs, but smaller referral pipelines. These communities are underserved and present opportunity for operators willing to build relationships.
• Athens — Home to the University of Georgia, Athens has growing demand for young-adult recovery housing tied to college-age substance use patterns.

Research existing sober living homes in your target area, identify gaps in service (gender-specific housing, veteran-focused, MAT-friendly, etc.), and talk to local treatment providers about their referral needs.

Step 2: Create a Business Plan

Your business plan should cover:

• Mission and vision. Define the population you will serve and the level of support you will provide.
• Market analysis. Summarize your research on demand, competition, and referral sources in your target Georgia market.
• Financial projections. Estimate startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and revenue based on occupancy and bed rates. Use the cost tables later in this guide as a starting point.
• Staffing plan. Determine whether you will manage the home yourself or hire a house manager and support staff.
• Growth strategy. Plan for how you will scale from one home to multiple properties over time.
• Compliance roadmap. Document your timeline for GARR certification, local permitting, and insurance procurement.

A solid business plan is also essential if you plan to seek grant funding or loans. For guidance on securing capital, see our guide on grants for recovery homes and halfway houses.

Step 3: Choose Your Business Entity

Georgia operators typically choose one of two structures:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company). The most common structure for for-profit sober living homes. LLCs provide personal liability protection and pass-through taxation. Registration is handled through the Georgia Secretary of State. Filing fees are relatively modest compared to other states.
• Nonprofit 501(c)(3). Required if you plan to accept certain grants (SAMHSA, HUD) or charitable donations. Nonprofits have additional governance requirements including a board of directors, but qualify for tax-exempt status and expanded funding opportunities.

Consult with an attorney and accountant to determine which structure best fits your goals. Many operators who plan to pursue grant funding as a primary strategy will benefit from establishing a nonprofit entity from the start.

Step 4: Find and Secure Property

Property selection is one of the most critical decisions you will make. Consider:

• Lease vs. purchase. Leasing reduces upfront costs and risk; purchasing builds equity but requires significant capital or financing.
• Residential zoning. Sober living homes are classified as residential use under the Fair Housing Act. Choose properties in residential neighborhoods where group living is permitted. For a detailed breakdown of zoning protections, see our sober living home zoning and Fair Housing guide.
• Size and layout. Most sober living homes accommodate 6-16 residents, though maximum occupancy limits vary by municipality and may be more restrictive in your area — always verify local occupancy rules with your city or county code enforcement office. Look for properties with multiple bedrooms, adequate bathrooms (at least one per four residents), common living areas, and off-street parking.
• Proximity to services. Residents benefit from proximity to public transportation, employment opportunities, 12-step meetings, outpatient treatment, and grocery stores. In Atlanta, MARTA access is a significant advantage. In smaller Georgia cities, walkability and proximity to bus routes matter.

Step 5: Ensure Compliance with Local Zoning and Building Codes

Even though Georgia lacks state-level sober living licensing, local municipalities may have zoning ordinances, occupancy limits, and building code requirements that apply. Key steps include:

• Contact your local planning and zoning department to verify that your property can be used as a group residence.
• Obtain any required business licenses or home occupation permits.
• Schedule a fire safety inspection and ensure smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and egress routes meet local fire code.
• Confirm that the property meets ADA accessibility guidelines if you plan to serve individuals with physical disabilities.
• Research any county-level health department requirements for group living arrangements.

Georgia municipalities that have attempted to restrict recovery homes through zoning have faced legal challenges under the Fair Housing Act. However, proactive engagement with local government is always preferable to adversarial proceedings.

Step 6: Develop Policies and Procedures

Comprehensive written policies are essential for GARR certification and day-to-day operations. Core policies include:

• House rules (curfew, chores, guest policies, drug and alcohol prohibitions)
• Drug testing protocols and consequences for positive results
• Admission and discharge criteria
• Grievance and complaint procedures
• Emergency response plans (medical emergencies, severe weather, fire)
• Financial policies (rent collection, deposits, refunds, late payment procedures)
• Medication management (if applicable)
• Good neighbor policies (noise, parking, property maintenance)
• Relapse response procedures with clear, compassionate protocols
• Anti-discrimination and equal opportunity policies

Document everything in a resident handbook that each incoming resident reviews and signs during intake.

Step 7: Secure Insurance Coverage

Insurance is a non-negotiable requirement for responsible sober living operations. At minimum, Georgia operators should carry:

• Commercial general liability insurance — Covers injuries, property damage, and legal claims
• Property insurance — Covers damage to the building and contents (required if you own; often required by landlords if you lease)
• Directors and officers insurance — Recommended for nonprofits to protect board members
• Workers’ compensation — Required by Georgia law if you have three or more employees
• Professional liability (errors and omissions) — Covers claims related to the services you provide

Specialized insurance providers for recovery housing and behavioral health can offer policies tailored to the unique risks of sober living operations. For comprehensive coverage guidance, see our sober living home insurance guide.

Step 8: Apply for GARR Certification

Once your policies, property, and operations are in place, submit your GARR membership application. GARR will guide you through the certification process, which involves documentation review and a physical site inspection. Starting this process early — even before you open — gives you time to address any gaps and demonstrates good faith to referral partners.

Step 9: Set Up Operations

Operational readiness includes:

• Staffing. Hire or designate a house manager. Depending on your certification level, you may also need peer support staff, case managers, or clinical personnel.
• Intake process. Develop a structured intake procedure including application screening, orientation, house rule review, and agreement signing.
• Financial systems. Set up rent collection, accounting, and financial reporting. Recovery residence management software can automate rent collection, bed tracking, compliance documentation, and resident records — replacing manual spreadsheets that become unmanageable as you scale.
• Supply and furnish the home. Each resident needs a bed, storage space, and access to shared amenities (kitchen, laundry, common areas). Budget for quality mattresses, durable furniture, and adequate kitchen supplies.

Step 10: Build Referral Relationships

Referrals are the lifeblood of a successful sober living home. Key referral sources in Georgia include:

• Residential and outpatient treatment centers
• Hospital discharge planners
• Drug courts and probation/parole officers
• Veterans Affairs (especially in Augusta and Atlanta)
• DBHDD community service boards (there are 25 across Georgia)
• Private therapists and psychiatrists
• 12-step and other recovery community organizations (RCOs)
• Faith-based organizations and churches

Visit referral sources in person, provide printed information about your home, and follow up regularly. GARR certification significantly strengthens your credibility with referral partners. Build relationships before you need them — the time to connect with treatment centers is during your setup phase, not after you open with empty beds.

Step 11: Launch and Market Your Home

When you are ready to accept residents:

• List your home on recovery housing directories (GARR directory, SAMHSA locator)
• Create a professional website with photos, house rules, services, and contact information
• Establish a Google Business Profile for local search visibility
• Maintain active relationships with referral sources through regular check-ins
• Ask satisfied residents and alumni for testimonials (with appropriate consent and HIPAA-compliant processes)
• Attend local recovery community events and GARR member meetings to maintain visibility

Georgia Sober Living Startup Costs

Understanding your financial requirements before launching is critical. Costs vary significantly based on location, property type, and level of service. Here is a detailed breakdown for Georgia operators.

Startup Cost Estimates

Cost Category	Lease Model	Purchase Model
First/last month rent or down payment	$3,000 - $8,000	$20,000 - $60,000+
Furnishing (beds, common areas, kitchen)	$3,000 - $10,000	$3,000 - $10,000
Deposits and utilities setup	$1,000 - $3,000	$1,000 - $3,000
Insurance (liability, property)	$1,500 - $4,000/year	$2,000 - $6,000/year
GARR certification fees	Contact GARR	Contact GARR
Business registration and legal	$500 - $2,000	$500 - $2,000
Drug testing supplies	$500 - $1,500	$500 - $1,500
Technology and software	$100 - $500	$100 - $500
Initial marketing and outreach	$500 - $2,000	$500 - $2,000
Initial operating reserves (3 months)	$5,000 - $15,000	$5,000 - $15,000
Total Estimated Startup	$15,000 - $46,000	$35,000 - $100,000+

Atlanta Metro vs. Smaller Markets

Property costs drive the biggest difference between Georgia markets. The table below compares monthly rental costs for a typical 6-bedroom sober living property across key Georgia cities.

Market	Monthly Rent (6-Bedroom)	Bed Rate Range	Competition Level
Atlanta (Decatur, Marietta, East Point)	$2,500 - $4,000	$700 - $1,400	High
Savannah	$1,800 - $3,000	$600 - $1,100	Moderate
Augusta	$1,400 - $2,500	$550 - $1,000	Low to moderate
Macon	$1,200 - $2,000	$500 - $900	Low
Columbus	$1,200 - $2,000	$500 - $900	Low
Athens	$1,600 - $2,800	$550 - $1,000	Low

Operators in smaller markets benefit from lower overhead but may need to invest more time and energy building referral pipelines. Atlanta operators face higher costs but have access to a larger pool of treatment centers, courts, and community organizations generating referrals.

Monthly Operating Costs

Typical monthly operating expenses for a sober living home in Georgia include:

Expense	Monthly Estimate
Rent/mortgage	$1,200 - $4,000
Utilities (electric, water, internet, gas)	$400 - $800
House manager compensation	$2,000 - $4,000
Insurance (monthly equivalent)	$125 - $500
Supplies and maintenance	$300 - $800
Drug testing	$200 - $500
Software and technology	$50 - $200
Marketing and outreach	$100 - $500
Accounting and bookkeeping	$200 - $500
Miscellaneous and contingency	$200 - $500
Total Monthly	$4,775 - $12,300

Revenue Potential

Monthly rent for sober living beds in Georgia typically ranges from $500-$900 per bed in smaller markets and $700-$1,400 per bed in the Atlanta metro area. A well-managed home with 8 beds at 85% average occupancy can generate meaningful revenue — however, 85% is a mature-operation benchmark, not a first-year expectation. New operators should plan conservatively and may experience significantly lower occupancy during the first 6-12 months while building referral relationships and community reputation.

The table below illustrates revenue scenarios for an 8-bed Georgia home at different occupancy levels.

Scenario	Occupancy	Avg Bed Rate	Monthly Revenue	Annual Revenue
Conservative (Year 1)	50%	$700	$2,800	$33,600
Moderate (Year 1-2)	70%	$750	$4,200	$50,400
Stabilized (Year 2+)	85%	$800	$5,440	$65,280
Optimized (Mature)	90%	$900	$6,480	$77,760

Revenue projections should account for ramp-up time, seasonal fluctuations, and the possibility that stabilized occupancy may take longer to achieve than anticipated. Operators running multiple homes achieve economies of scale on staffing, insurance, and administrative costs.

Funding Opportunities for Georgia Sober Living Homes

Securing funding can significantly reduce your financial risk and accelerate your launch. Several federal and state programs provide grants and financial assistance for recovery housing operators. However, eligibility requirements are strict, funding is competitive, and not all operators will qualify. Grant programs often require nonprofit status, NARR certification, demonstrated operational history, or specific population focus. The funding sources described below are not guaranteed — always verify current availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines directly with the administering agency.

For a comprehensive overview of funding opportunities nationwide, see our guide on grants for recovery homes and halfway houses.

SAMHSA Grants

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers multiple grant programs that support recovery housing, including the Recovery Housing Program and various discretionary grants. GARR certification significantly strengthens your application, as SAMHSA prioritizes NARR-certified residences. Grant announcements are posted on grants.gov and the SAMHSA website.

Georgia Opioid Settlement Funds

Georgia is receiving substantial opioid settlement allocations from litigation against pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors. These funds flow through the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) and are designated for substance use disorder treatment and recovery support services, including recovery housing. Georgia’s opioid settlement governance structure directs funds through regional distribution, meaning operators in underserved areas outside Atlanta may find competitive advantages. Contact DBHDD directly for information on current funding opportunities and application processes.

HUD Recovery Housing Program

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Recovery Housing Program provides funding specifically for stable, temporary housing for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. Funds are distributed through state agencies, and Georgia operators should contact DBHDD and their local Continuum of Care for application information.

State Behavioral Health Block Grants

Georgia receives federal Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant funds, a portion of which may be allocated to recovery housing. These funds are administered through DBHDD and distributed to community service boards and other providers across the state. Georgia has 25 community service boards, and building relationships with your local board can open doors to state-funded programming and referrals.

Tips for Grant Competitiveness

• Obtain GARR certification before applying — many grants require it
• Organize as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit if you plan to pursue grants as a primary funding strategy
• Develop strong data collection and outcome measurement practices using recovery residence software
• Build partnerships with treatment providers, courts, and community organizations
• Maintain clean financial records and demonstrate fiscal responsibility
• Document resident outcomes including employment rates, length of stay, and sobriety milestones
• Align your application narratives with Georgia-specific needs data from DBHDD reports

Georgia Recovery Housing Market Overview

Georgia’s recovery housing market is shaped by the state’s ongoing battle with substance use disorders, a growing population, and increasing recognition of recovery housing as a critical component of the treatment continuum.

Opioid Crisis Impact

Georgia has been significantly affected by the opioid epidemic. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, opioid-related overdose deaths have increased substantially over the past decade, and the state has seen growing prevalence of fentanyl and methamphetamine use alongside traditional opioid misuse. This crisis has driven increased demand for treatment services at every level, including recovery housing.

Demand for Recovery Housing

The gap between available treatment capacity and demand remains significant across Georgia. Many individuals completing residential treatment or detox have nowhere to go, and the shortage of quality recovery housing contributes to relapse and homelessness. This unmet demand represents both a public health need and an opportunity for operators committed to providing quality services.

Key Markets

• Atlanta metro — By far the largest market, with a diverse population, extensive treatment infrastructure, and strong referral networks. Competition is higher, but demand supports it. The I-285 corridor and surrounding suburbs offer diverse property options at varying price points.
• Savannah — A growing market with increasing demand driven by tourism industry-related substance use challenges and an expanding treatment community. Chatham County’s opioid response initiatives create partnership opportunities.
• Augusta — Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) creates demand for military-connected and veteran-focused recovery housing. The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center is a key referral partner.
• Macon and Columbus — Underserved markets with growing need and limited existing recovery housing supply. Lower costs of entry make these attractive for new operators willing to invest in community relationship building.
• Rural Georgia — Significant unmet need exists in rural counties where treatment options are scarce. Operators serving these areas may face longer commute distances for residents accessing services but encounter virtually no competition.

Competition Landscape

While Georgia’s recovery housing market is growing, it remains less saturated than states like Florida, California, or Arizona. The absence of mandatory certification means that quality varies widely — which presents an opportunity for operators who pursue GARR certification and commit to NARR standards to differentiate themselves. GARR-certified operators report stronger occupancy rates and better referral relationships than non-certified competitors.

Georgia-Specific Compliance Requirements

Even without state-level licensing, Georgia sober living operators must navigate several compliance areas. Local municipalities may have their own requirements beyond what is described here — always check with your city or county government.

Local Zoning Considerations

Georgia municipalities have their own zoning ordinances that may affect where recovery residences can operate. Some cities have attempted to restrict group homes through special use permit requirements or occupancy limits. However, the federal Fair Housing Act generally protects recovery residences from discriminatory zoning practices. The landmark City of Edmonds v. Oxford House (1995) Supreme Court case confirmed that the FHA applies to municipal zoning ordinances affecting recovery housing. If you encounter zoning challenges, consult with an attorney experienced in Fair Housing law. For detailed guidance, see our sober living home zoning and Fair Housing guide.

Fair Housing Act Protections

Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals in recovery from substance use disorders are considered to have a disability and are protected from housing discrimination. This means that:

• Municipalities cannot zone out sober living homes based on the disability status of residents
• Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because the property will be used as a recovery residence
• Reasonable accommodations must be made for residents with disabilities
• Spacing and concentration ordinances targeting recovery homes specifically are subject to legal challenge

These protections apply in Georgia and all other states. Operators should document any discriminatory actions and consult legal counsel if needed.

Fire Safety and Building Codes

All sober living homes must comply with local fire safety codes. Common requirements in Georgia jurisdictions include:

• Working smoke detectors in every bedroom and common area
• Carbon monoxide detectors on each floor
• Fire extinguishers accessible on each level
• Two means of egress from each sleeping area
• Emergency evacuation plan posted in common areas
• Regular fire drills (recommended quarterly)

Schedule an inspection with your local fire marshal before opening to identify and address any deficiencies. Georgia fire marshals operate at the county level — contact your county fire department for scheduling.

Insurance Requirements

At minimum, Georgia sober living operators should carry:

• General liability insurance — Covers injuries, property damage, and legal claims
• Property insurance — Covers damage to the building and contents (required if you own; often required by landlords if you lease)
• Directors and officers insurance — Recommended for nonprofits
• Workers’ compensation — Required by Georgia law if you have three or more employees

Specialized insurance providers for recovery housing and behavioral health can offer policies tailored to the unique risks of sober living operations. See our sober living home insurance guide for a complete breakdown of coverage types and provider selection.

Drug Testing Policies

While Georgia does not mandate specific drug testing protocols for sober living homes, GARR certification requires documented testing policies. Best practices include:

• Random drug testing at established intervals
• Testing upon intake and for cause (suspected use)
• Clear consequences for positive results, documented in house rules
• Use of CLIA-waived testing devices or lab services
• Proper handling, chain of custody, and documentation of results
• SB 4-compliant testing practices — testing must serve clinical purposes, not revenue generation

Georgia Business Tax Obligations

Georgia sober living operators should be aware of state-specific tax obligations:

• Georgia state income tax applies to LLC profits (graduated rates up to 5.49% as of 2026)
• Sales tax does not apply to residential rent but may apply to other services
• Annual LLC registration fee is due to the Georgia Secretary of State
• Property taxes apply if you own the home; exemptions may be available for 501(c)(3) nonprofits
• Payroll taxes apply if you have employees (including workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance)

Consult with a Georgia-licensed CPA for guidance on your specific tax obligations.

Georgia Sober Living Operator Checklist

Use this checklist to track your progress toward opening a sober living home in Georgia:

Step	Task	Status
1	Research target market and identify service gaps	Pending
2	Write business plan with financial projections	Pending
3	Choose business entity (LLC or 501(c)(3)) and register with Georgia Secretary of State	Pending
4	Secure property (lease or purchase)	Pending
5	Verify local zoning and obtain required permits	Pending
6	Pass fire safety inspection	Pending
7	Develop written policies and resident handbook	Pending
8	Secure insurance coverage (liability, property, workers’ comp)	Pending
9	Apply for GARR membership and begin certification process	Pending
10	Furnish the home and set up operational systems	Pending
11	Implement management software for billing and compliance	Pending
12	Build referral relationships with treatment centers and courts	Pending
13	Complete GARR certification	Pending
14	Launch marketing and open for residents	Pending

How Sober Living App Helps Georgia Operators

Sober Living App is built specifically for recovery residence operators who want to run efficient, professional, and compliant homes.

Our all-in-one platform handles rent collection, admissions, property management, bed management, residents’ care coordination, housing notes, community contacts, transportation details, calendars, staff management, and alumni tracking — all from the convenience of your phone.

Whether you are opening your first home in Georgia or managing multiple properties across the state, Sober Living App gives you the tools to stay organized, maintain compliance documentation for GARR certification, and focus on what matters most: supporting your residents’ recovery.

Claim your free trial today and see why recovery residence operators across the country trust Sober Living App to manage their operations.