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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Horry County, SC

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals (under 90 days) are permitted in unincorporated Horry County subject to obtaining zoning approval and a county business license. Operators must collect and remit the county Hospitality Fee; however, specific occupancy caps or residency requirements are not detailed at the county level, though municipalities like Myrtle Beach impose much stricter zoning prohibitions.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain zoning approval from the Horry County Planning and Zoning Department (843-915-5340). 2. Submit a Business License Application form to the County Treasurer. 3. Register for and remit the Horry County Hospitality Fee for all rentals under 90 days. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Official Resources

Official Horry County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Horry County, SC?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Horry County, SC, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (under 90 days) are permitted in unincorporated Horry County subject to obtaining zoning approval and a county business license. Operators must collect and remit the county Hospitality Fee; however, specific occupancy caps or residency requirements are not detailed at the county level, though municipalities like Myrtle Beach impose much stricter zoning prohibitions. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Horry County, SC?
Short-term rentals (under 90 days) are permitted in unincorporated Horry County subject to obtaining zoning approval and a county business license. Operators must collect and remit the county Hospitality Fee; however, specific occupancy caps or residency requirements are not detailed at the county level, though municipalities like Myrtle Beach impose much stricter zoning prohibitions.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Horry County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Horry County. 1. Obtain zoning approval from the Horry County Planning and Zoning Department (843-915-5340). 2. Submit a Business License Application form to the County Treasurer. 3. Register for and remit the Horry County Hospitality Fee for all rentals under 90 days. Licenses must be renewed annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Horry County?
1. Obtain zoning approval from the Horry County Planning and Zoning Department (843-915-5340). 2. Submit a Business License Application form to the County Treasurer. 3. Register for and remit the Horry County Hospitality Fee for all rentals under 90 days. Licenses must be renewed annually.
Is Vrbo legal in Horry County, SC?
Vrbo is permitted in Horry County, SC under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Horry County?
Short-term rental hosts in Horry County are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Horry County?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Horry County. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.

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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction