Is Airbnb legal in North Myrtle Beach?

In North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, short-term rental regulations are designed to manage the growing demand for vacation rentals while addressing the concerns of local residents. Here’s a brief overview of the key regulations:

1. Licensing Requirements: Property owners intending to operate short-term rentals must obtain a business license and a short-term rental permit from the city. This process involves submitting documentation, including proof of ownership, a floor plan, and a parking plan. Additionally, compliance with zoning codes is essential; short-term rentals are permitted only in specific districts such as Resort Residential (RR) and Limited Industrial (LI) zones.

2. Tax Obligations: Operators are required to collect a total tax rate of 13% from guests, which includes a 7% state sales tax and a 6% local accommodations tax. It is important that owners ensure compliance with tax regulations, even if platforms like Airbnb automatically collect and remit some taxes on their behalf.

3. Safety Regulations: Properties must pass a fire inspection and adhere to building safety codes. This includes having smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers installed.

4. Occupancy Limits and Noise Regulations: Owners must abide by specific occupancy limits that generally depend on the size of the property. Furthermore, North Myrtle Beach enforces "quiet hours" from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., during which noise must not disturb neighboring properties.

5. Enforcement and Penalties: The city is known for strict enforcement of these regulations, and failure to comply can result in fines, legal action, and potential revocation of business licenses. The penalties for not having the necessary permits can reach $500 per violation, with ongoing infractions being penalized daily.

Compliance with these regulations not only contributes to the community’s well-being but also enhances the experience for guests, fostering a more appealing environment for visitors. For more detailed information, property owners are advised to consult the North Myrtle Beach Business License Division.