Short-Term Rental Regulations
in McDowell County, NC

McDowell County’s Zoning Ordinance defines 'boarding house' to include 'tourist home' and lists 'boarding houses and tourist homes' as a conditional use (allowed only where authorized as a conditional use, e.g., 0-I Office & Institutional district). Operators must follow the county conditional-use/compliance-permit process (site/development plan, public notice/hearing); inspections and compliance with county health/watershed rules apply.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in McDowell County. 1) Submit a written application for a conditional use permit to the Planning Administrator and attend the required pre-application conference; 2) Provide the required site/development plan and supporting documents (see Section 1304) and the county will provide public notice and schedule a Board of Adjustment hearing; 3) If approved, comply with any conditions, obtain required building permits/certificate of occupancy within 12 months (or approval may expire), and expect periodic and final inspections by the Planning Administrator.

1) Submit a written application for a conditional use permit to the Planning Administrator and attend the required pre-application conference; 2) Provide the required site/development plan and supporting documents (see Section 1304) and the county will provide public notice and schedule a Board of Adjustment hearing; 3) If approved, comply with any conditions, obtain required building permits/certificate of occupancy within 12 months (or approval may expire), and expect periodic and final inspections by the Planning Administrator.