ATL Standard

ATLANTA – Today, State Representative Devan Seabaugh (R-Marietta) and other legislators joined Governor Brian Kemp as he signed House Bill 1017, also known as the Squatter Reform Act, into law.

“With the Squatter Reform Act now signed into law, we reaffirm our stance against unwanted intruders in our state, making it clear that their actions are criminal and will face consequences,” said Rep. Seabaugh. “I commend my legislative colleagues for their diligent efforts in pushing forward this vital measure, which will empower Georgia’s property owners to address intrusive squatters in an effective manner.”

“Squatters have been stealing the American dream of homeownership, and this bill puts a stop to that in Georgia,” said Rep. Matt Reeves (R-Duluth), the bill’s co-sponsor.

House Bill 1017 establishes the offense of unlawful squatting, defining it as entering and residing on the land or premises of the owner without consent. Offenders will receive a citation requiring them to provide authorization of consent within three days. Failure to do so will result in arrest for criminal trespass. If documentation is provided, a hearing will be heard in Magistrate Court within seven days to determine if the documents have merit. False swearing and the submission of improper or fraudulent documentation will lead to felony arrest, removal and the squatter will be subject to additional fines to cover damages, back rent based on the property’s fair market value and up to a year in jail.

This bill became effective upon the governor’s signature.