Any STR hosts in Dekalb county, GA?

[Patricia Lashley]

I bought a single family home that has a terrace apartment with access either through the main house or a separate porticoed entrance at one side of the house. Prior to purchasing I was told by multiple officials in Dekalb county office that there are no STR regs for Dekalb county. There are hundreds of STRs presently listed on OTA sites and all show occupancy (sales) taxes being collected from renters for GA state and for Dekalb county. Problem is, now that I own the house and in the process of remodeling bathrooms, putting in cabinets and appliances, painting the entire house etc., I was told via email from the Planning Department that because there are no regulations for STRs, STRs are NOT ALLOWED. I am so confused and a little scared because that same email sent me a Use Table. Says my house is zoned R75 and the boxes for multi family use, short term rentals are both blank - nothing in them, which according to the email I received, indicates that these activities cannot be done there. Which messes up my plan, my back up plan and has me paralyzed trying to figure out what to do with this house. If I sell, I have to pay 3% prepayment. I need help! :)