Short-Term Rental Rules in Charleston, SC (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term rentals are allowed in Charleston, SC, with specific regulations. Hosts must obtain a Certificate of Operation and a Business License to operate legally [1].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Charleston [1]. You need a Certificate of Operation for the STR Operational Permit and a Business License [1]. The application must be complete, and all required documents must be submitted [1]. A non-refundable zoning application fee is required at the time of application submission [1]. Fire Marshal fees and the Business License fee are additional and must be paid before the Certificate of Operation is issued [1].
Taxes
Short-term rental accommodations are subject to a 5% Sales Tax and a 2% Accommodations Tax [2]. Some local sales and use taxes may also apply, collected on behalf of counties [2]. If the host books directly, a Retail License is required to file and pay the Accommodations Tax, unless rentals do not exceed one week each calendar quarter [2]. Accommodations Taxes must be filed and paid electronically [2].
Limits and restrictions
Only one short-term rental unit is permitted per property, and the property owner must reside on the property while guests are present [1]. The owner must also maintain a general liability policy with a minimum of $1,000,000 coverage per occurrence [1]. Off-street parking requirements depend on the property category [4].
Penalties
Incomplete applications will be denied [1]. Failure to submit required information on accommodations taxes will result in penalties [2].
How to apply
Applications can be submitted at the City of Charleston Permit Center or online [1]. Required documents include a site plan, floor plans, photographs, a driver's license, and proof of property qualification for the 4% Legal Residence exemption [1]. The Fire Marshal's checklist must also be completed [1].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit requirements | Obtain Certificate of Operation and Business License [1] |
| Taxes | 5% Sales Tax, 2% Accommodations Tax, possible local taxes [2] |
| Property limit | One STR unit per property [1] |
| On-site residency | Owner must reside overnight if guests are present [1] |
| Liability coverage | Minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence general liability [1] |
| Parking | Off-street parking per category specific requirements [4] |
| Penalties for non-compliance | Denied applications, penalties for tax filing failures [1][2] |
FAQ
Does the host need to reside on the property?
Yes, the host must reside overnight on the property while guests are present [1].
Are there additional taxes beyond the state rate?
Yes, local sales and use taxes may also apply depending on the municipality [2].
Is there a limit on the number of STR units per property?
Yes, only one short-term rental unit is allowed per property [1].
Running a rental in Charleston
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- R E SID E N TI A L (official)
- Accommodations | South Carolina Department of Revenue (official)
- ARTICLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS | Zoning | Charleston, SC | Municode Library (official)
- Short Term Rental Categories | Charleston, SC - Official Website (official)
Last checked: October 14, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.