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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Richland County, SC

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

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are allowed in unincorporated Richland County subject to land development and zoning rules. Key constraints include a one-night minimum stay, a requirement for two designated parking spaces, and a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons per dwelling unit. Owners or local representatives must be available to respond to complaints and accept service of process.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply for a Richland County business license through the Business Service Center. 2) Obtain zoning review and approval to ensure the activity is allowed at the location (home-based businesses must complete a Home Occupation Form). 3) Remit applicable local accommodations taxes and maintain required records for potential safety inspections.

Official Resources

Official Richland County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Richland County, SC?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Richland County, SC, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are allowed in unincorporated Richland County subject to land development and zoning rules. Key constraints include a one-night minimum stay, a requirement for two designated parking spaces, and a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons per dwelling unit. Owners or local representatives must be available to respond to complaints and accept service of process. 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 Richland County, SC?
Short-term rentals are allowed in unincorporated Richland County subject to land development and zoning rules. Key constraints include a one-night minimum stay, a requirement for two designated parking spaces, and a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons per dwelling unit. Owners or local representatives must be available to respond to complaints and accept service of process.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Richland County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Richland County. 1) Apply for a Richland County business license through the Business Service Center. 2) Obtain zoning review and approval to ensure the activity is allowed at the location (home-based businesses must complete a Home Occupation Form). 3) Remit applicable local accommodations taxes and maintain required records for potential safety inspections.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Richland County?
1) Apply for a Richland County business license through the Business Service Center. 2) Obtain zoning review and approval to ensure the activity is allowed at the location (home-based businesses must complete a Home Occupation Form). 3) Remit applicable local accommodations taxes and maintain required records for potential safety inspections.
Is Vrbo legal in Richland County, SC?
Vrbo is permitted in Richland 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 Richland County?
Short-term rental hosts in Richland 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 Richland County?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Richland 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