Neighbors ask Sandy Springs to step up enforcement of short-term rental 'party houses'

Several neighbors told the City Council on Jan. 7 that short-term rentals operating as commercial party venues have caused repeated noise, trash and safety problems in residential neighborhoods and that current enforcement tools are inadequate.

Barbara Schaffer said a house rented through an LLC next door to her four-home subdivision generated loud weekend parties and that repeated calls for help had not stopped the activity. “I called the police repeatedly over these last few weeks,” Schaffer said. “My husband and I have not slept in weeks.”

Kim Lapsha, who said she shares a cul-de-sac with the rental, said code enforcement posted a notice that was torn off and that attempts to contact the platform operator produced no results. “It’s like living in a disaster zone,” Lapsha said.

Kevin Schaeffer, another neighbor, said families with young children are considering moving because of the disturbance; he told the council he and others had been advised by HOA contacts that enforcement could expose them to legal risk and that they need municipal support.

Council members and staff urged residents to call 911 for immediate disturbances and said police and code enforcement would meet with the neighborhood to assess next steps. Councilmember John Paulson and staff asked the affected residents to coordinate with police and code enforcement so the city can pursue available remedies.

Separately, community member Jack Raburn reviewed the city’s code definition of a “party house” and noted distinctions between private holiday gatherings and commercial events in zoned residential areas. Councilmembers said they would discuss possible ordinance changes at a future work session.