Short-Term Rental Regulations — South Carolina
Hosts in Charleston must obtain a permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. The permit fee is $50, renewable Annual. Charleston restricts short-term rentals to owner-occupied properties only, meaning you must live in the home you are renting out. There is no annual day cap on rentals in Charleston. An occupancy tax of 10% applies to all short-term rental income. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit this tax automatically.
Day Limit Notes
Strictly limited to owner-occupied properties in residential zones (Short Term Rental overlay).
⚠ Tax Notes
Plus 2% State Accommodations Tax and 7% Sales Tax.
⚠ Prohibited Zones
Non-owner occupied whole-house rentals are prohibited in residential zoning districts.
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Charleston?
Yes. Charleston requires a permit to operate a short-term rental. The permit fee is $50 and must be renewed Annual. You must obtain this permit before listing your property on Airbnb, VRBO, or other platforms.
What is the occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals in Charleston?
Short-term rentals in Charleston are subject to a 10% occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit this tax on behalf of hosts — you do not need to handle it separately. Plus 2% State Accommodations Tax and 7% Sales Tax.
Can I rent out a property I don't live in as an Airbnb in Charleston?
No. Charleston restricts short-term rentals to owner-occupied properties. You must live in the home as your primary residence to list it as a short-term rental. Investment properties or second homes cannot be listed as STRs.
How many days per year can I rent my property in Charleston?
Charleston does not impose an annual day cap on short-term rentals. You can rent your property for as many days as you choose, subject to other local regulations. Strictly limited to owner-occupied properties in residential zones (Short Term Rental overlay).
Does Airbnb collect occupancy taxes in Charleston?
Yes. Airbnb and VRBO automatically collect and remit the 10% occupancy tax in Charleston on behalf of hosts. You do not need to separately collect or remit this tax — it is handled at the platform level.
Are there any prohibited zones for short-term rentals in Charleston?
Yes. Charleston prohibits short-term rentals in certain areas: Non-owner occupied whole-house rentals are prohibited in residential zoning districts.. Always verify your property's zoning status with the local planning department before listing.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Charleston?
Yes. Charleston requires short-term rental hosts to register their property with the city. This is separate from any permit requirement and typically involves providing property information and contact details to the local authority.
Official Source
Charleston City Government
Last verified: 2026-03-23 · Always confirm with your local government before listing.