Written by: Sanjin Hadziomerovic
Myrtle Beach: Strict Zoning Laws Limit Residential STRs
Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, with over 20 million visitors annually. But despite high demand, the city enforces some of the strictest short-term rental zoning laws in South Carolina.
Here’s what hosts need to know:
- STRs are banned in most residential zoning districts, including R-1, R-2, and RMH.
- The city only allows STRs in certain mixed-use or commercial zones like RMV (Residential Multifamily Visitor), MU-H (Mixed-Use High Density), and HC-1 (Highway Commercial).
- STRs must be licensed through the city’s Business License Division.
- Operators are expected to collect and remit both state and local accommodations taxes.
Enforcement is aggressive, and operating an STR in a restricted zoning district can lead to fines or a cease-and-desist order. This makes zoning verification critical for anyone buying or managing an Airbnb in Myrtle Beach.
Pro tip: Condos along the beachfront are often zoned appropriately for STR use — but single-family homes in quiet neighborhoods usually are not.
Airbnb Rental Regulations Myrtle Beach
North Charleston: Permit Required and Tied to Primary Residency
North Charleston has taken a more moderate but focused approach to regulating STRs. As of 2023, the city requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit, but only for primary residences.
Key points:
- STRs are only allowed in owner-occupied residences.
- Owners must live on-site for at least 275 days per year to qualify.
- Permits must be renewed annually and require an inspection.
- Properties must display the permit number and adhere to occupancy, parking, and trash rules.
The city’s goal is to allow “homestay” Airbnb activity without encouraging full-time vacation rentals in residential areas. For investors, this means non-owner-occupied STRs are not permitted, effectively ruling out most traditional Airbnb business models in this market.
Airbnb Rental Regulations North Charleston
