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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Charleston County, SC

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are permitted only in unincorporated areas of the county and are classified into categories based on the number of days rented and the type of dwelling. Requirements include compliance with ZLDR Article 6.8, potential Board of Zoning Appeals approval for extended rentals, and mandatory annual renewal. Specific zoning district restrictions and occupancy limits apply based on the permit type.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Determine the applicable STR category (Limited, Extended, Commercial, or Dewees Island) and download the corresponding application packet from the Zoning & Planning website. 2) Submit the completed application and required documentation via the County's online permitting portal (EnerGov) or directly to the Zoning & Planning Department. 3) For certain types (e.g., Extended Home Rental), obtain a Special Exception from the Board of Zoning Appeals; all permits must be renewed annually using the STR Annual Renewal Affidavit.

Official Resources

Official Charleston County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Charleston County, SC?
STRs are permitted only in unincorporated areas of the county and are classified into categories based on the number of days rented and the type of dwelling. Requirements include compliance with ZLDR Article 6.8, potential Board of Zoning Appeals approval for extended rentals, and mandatory annual renewal. Specific zoning district restrictions and occupancy limits apply based on the permit type.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Charleston County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Charleston County. 1) Determine the applicable STR category (Limited, Extended, Commercial, or Dewees Island) and download the corresponding application packet from the Zoning & Planning website. 2) Submit the completed application and required documentation via the County's online permitting portal (EnerGov) or directly to the Zoning & Planning Department. 3) For certain types (e.g., Extended Home Rental), obtain a Special Exception from the Board of Zoning Appeals; all permits must be renewed annually using the STR Annual Renewal Affidavit.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Charleston County?
1) Determine the applicable STR category (Limited, Extended, Commercial, or Dewees Island) and download the corresponding application packet from the Zoning & Planning website. 2) Submit the completed application and required documentation via the County's online permitting portal (EnerGov) or directly to the Zoning & Planning Department. 3) For certain types (e.g., Extended Home Rental), obtain a Special Exception from the Board of Zoning Appeals; all permits must be renewed annually using the STR Annual Renewal Affidavit.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction