Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

YES, short-term rentals are allowed in Darlington, SC, but only as conditional uses in specific zoning districts. STRs are permitted in Low Density Residential (LD), Medium Density Residential (MD), High Density Residential (HD), Traditional Neighborhood (TN), Multi-Family (MF), and General Commercial (GC) districts, subject to strict conditional use requirements and neighborhood compatibility standards.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Darlington

Step 1: Verify Zoning Eligibility

First, confirm that your property is located in an approved zoning district where STRs are allowed as conditional uses:

• Low Density Residential (LD)
• Medium Density Residential (MD)
• High Density Residential (HD)
• Traditional Neighborhood (TN)
• Multi-Family (MF)
• General Commercial (GC)

Step 2: Meet Conditional Use Requirements

All STRs must satisfy the following conditions to receive approval:

1. Owner Occupancy: The primary dwelling must be owner-occupied (exception: Core Commercial District)
2. Off-Street Parking: Provide required parking as specified in zoning regulations
3. Parking Restrictions:
   • STR parking cannot be located between the street and primary dwelling
   • Parking must be provided to the side or rear of the primary dwelling
4. Accessory Dwelling Requirements: If STR is detached from primary dwelling, must comply with Section 4.8 ADU requirements
5. Neighborhood Compatibility: No detrimental impacts including excessive on-site/on-street parking, noise, or lighting

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply for conditional use approval through the Planning Commission process outlined in Article IX of the zoning ordinance.

Step 4: Obtain Necessary Permits

After conditional use approval, secure all required building permits and business licenses.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Conditional Use Application Requirements:

• Completed application form
• Site plan showing property boundaries and existing structures
• Parking arrangement details demonstrating compliance
• Property ownership verification
• Owner-occupancy documentation (if applicable)
• Impact assessment addressing neighborhood compatibility

Building Permits:

• Building permit application (Section 9.2.3)
• Construction plans and specifications
• Fire safety compliance
• Zoning compliance certificate

Business Licenses:

• Business license application
• Tax registration
• Any state-level lodging permits required

Additional Documentation:

• Parking plan showing side/rear parking configuration
• Noise and lighting management plan
• Community impact mitigation strategies

Specific Regulations by Jurisdiction

City of Darlington STR Regulations (Primary)

Permitted Districts (Conditional Use Only):

• Low Density Residential (LD) - 1 space per rental unit
• Medium Density Residential (MD) - 1 space per rental unit
• High Density Residential (HD) - 1 space per rental unit
• Traditional Neighborhood (TN) - 1 space per rental unit
• Multi-Family (MF) - 1 space per rental unit
• General Commercial (GC) - 1 space per rental unit

Core Requirements:

• Owner Occupancy: Mandatory in all residential districts except Core Commercial
• Parking Standards:
  • Minimum: 1 space per rental unit
  • Location: Side or rear of primary dwelling only
  • Prohibition: No parking between street and primary dwelling
• Accessory Dwelling Compliance: If detached, must meet all ADU standards
• Neighborhood Standards: Must not create excessive parking, noise, or lighting impacts

Bed and Breakfast Alternative:

• Must be 400+ feet from existing B&B
• Owner-occupied requirement
• Architecturally significant structure
• Maximum breakfast service only
• Special permit required through Planning Commission

State of South Carolina Requirements:

While no specific state-level short-term rental regulations are detailed in this ordinance, investors should verify:

• State business registration requirements
• South Carolina Department of Revenue tax obligations
• Any state lodging facility permits
• Compliance with South Carolina accommodation tax requirements

County-Level Regulations:

No specific Darlington County regulations are provided in this zoning ordinance. Contact Darlington County Planning and Development Department for county-specific requirements.

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contacts:

Building Official
Darlington City Hall
1400 Hampton Street
Darlington, SC 29532
For building permits, zoning compliance, and ordinance interpretation

City Planner
Darlington City Hall
1400 Hampton Street
Darlington, SC 29532
For planning commission applications, zoning questions, and development guidance

Planning Commission
Darlington City Hall
1400 Hampton Street
Darlington, SC 29532
For conditional use applications and public hearings

City Clerk
Darlington City Hall
1400 Hampton Street
Darlington, SC 29532
For business licenses and general municipal services

Related Authorities:

Historical Landmarks Commission (for properties in Historic Overlay District)
Contact through Building Official

Board of Zoning Appeals
For variance requests and zoning appeals

Links to Source Pages

• Primary Zoning Ordinance: www.cityofdarlington.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-09-03-Zoning-and-Subdivision-Ordinance-DRAFTsept-3.pdf

Important Notes for Investors

Zoning Compliance Priority

This zoning ordinance represents a draft from September 2024. Verify current status and any adopted amendments before proceeding with any STR development.

Conditional Use Process

STR approval requires going through the full conditional use process, which includes:

1. Pre-application consultation with planning staff
2. Planning Commission review and recommendation
3. City Council public hearing and final approval
4. Building permit issuance following approval

Neighborhood Impact Assessment

Darlington places strong emphasis on neighborhood compatibility. Be prepared to demonstrate how your STR operation will:

• Manage parking effectively
• Control noise and lighting
• Integrate with surrounding residential character
• Avoid disrupting the neighborhood dynamic

Historic District Considerations

If your property falls within the Historic Overlay District, you must also obtain approval from the Historical Landmarks Commission for any exterior modifications.

This comprehensive guide provides the regulatory framework for establishing a compliant short-term rental operation in Darlington, SC. All prospective investors should consult directly with city planning staff before beginning the application process.