In Charleston, South Carolina, short-term rental (STR) regulations are strict, particularly for non-owner-occupied properties. Here are the key points:General Rules for Short-Term Rentals

1. Owner-Occupied Requirement: Short-term rentals are generally allowed only in owner-occupied homes. The property must be the owner's primary residence, verified through the 4% Legal Residence tax exemption. Non-owner-occupied properties are largely prohibited unless located in commercially zoned areas within the Short-Term Rental Overlay District23.
2. Occupancy Limits: A maximum of four adults is allowed per STR unit, regardless of property size or bedroom count12.
3. Zoning and Permits:
   • All STRs must comply with zoning laws.
   • A short-term rental permit and a business license are required. These must be renewed annually24.
4. Parking Requirements: Properties must provide at least one off-street parking space per bedroom in addition to parking for the primary residence13.
5. Safety Standards: STRs must meet fire safety standards, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits1.
6. Local Contact: A responsible party must be available 24/7 to address issues and respond within 30 minutes1.

Non-Owner-Occupied Rentals

Non-owner-occupied STRs are generally not permitted unless they are located in specific commercial zones within the Short-Term Rental Overlay District. These properties must still adhere to occupancy, parking, and safety requirements36.

Enforcement and Penalties

Charleston has a dedicated enforcement team to ensure compliance with STR regulations. Violations can result in fines, permit revocation, or legal action. The city does not "grandfather in" illegal STRs; all properties must comply with current regulations26.

Additional Considerations

• Homeowners associations (HOAs) or neighborhood covenants may impose stricter rules than city ordinances1.
• Operators must collect accommodations taxes from renters2.

For non-owner-occupied properties, it is essential to verify if the property is in a zone where such rentals are allowed and to obtain all necessary permits and licenses.