South Carolina (SC) Short-Term Rental Regulations
Compare STR rules across 1 South Carolina city. License fees, tax rates, and operating rules. Verified May 2026.
At a Glance
Regulatory Climate and Primary Residence fields derived from city-level archetype data. Preemption status verified against state statutes (verified against state legislative records).
📊 By the Numbers
- 1 city covered in South Carolina
- License fee range: $595–$595
- 1 city rated high-risk for investors
Source: City-level data from official municipal sources, cross-verified May 2026.
Regulatory Overview
South Carolina has no state-level STR preemption. Charleston is a premium STR market with premium compliance costs. Class 1 permits (owner-occupied) cost $595 total ($250 + $345). Class 2 permits (non-owner-occupied) cost $1,845 ($1,500 + $345). Zoning restrictions apply, and self-reported tax remittance is required. Charleston's historic district tourism commands high ADRs, but the cost of entry and zoning barriers make it a market for experienced operators with properties in the right zones.
City Comparison — 1 City
All South Carolina cities covered by RentPermitted, ranked and compared:
| City | Status | License Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | Zoning + Permit Required | $595 (Class 1: $250 + $345) or $1,845 (Class 2: $1,500 + $345) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cities in South Carolina does RentPermitted cover?
We cover 1 city in South Carolina: Charleston.
Does South Carolina have state-wide STR laws?
South Carolina regulates short-term rentals primarily at the city level. There is no comprehensive state-wide STR law. Check each individual city page for specific license requirements, fees, and operating rules.
Which South Carolina city is best for STR investment?
Charleston is the only city we currently cover in South Carolina. Charleston is a premium STR market with premium compliance costs. $1,700 first-year permit + self-remit taxes + criminal penalties make it one of the most administratively demanding cities in this bat
Similar States
States with a comparable restrictive regulatory profile:
Disclaimer: Data sourced from official South Carolina city websites and state statutes. Regulations change. Verify with local authorities before making investment decisions. Last comprehensive review: May 2026.
RentPermitted is not a government agency. We compile public information for educational purposes.