Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Myrtle Beach, SC?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, but with significant zoning restrictions and licensing requirements. Short-term rentals (defined as rentals of less than 90 consecutive days) are permitted in specific zoning districts but are prohibited in most traditional residential neighborhoods.

According to the City of Myrtle Beach, most traditional residential neighborhoods (any zoning district beginning with "R") do NOT allow short-term rentals, with the exception of the RMV zone (Residential Multifamily Visitor). City-wide, fewer than 30 houses in traditional residential zones are grandfathered for short-term rentals.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Myrtle Beach

To operate a short-term rental business in Myrtle Beach, you must:

1. Verify zoning compliance - Ensure your property is located in an approved zone
2. Obtain a business license - Required before operating any rental business
3. Register for tax collection - Set up accounts for local, county, and state taxes
4. Secure appropriate insurance - Standard homeowners insurance may not cover STR activities
5. Establish guest management procedures - Including check-in processes and emergency contacts
6. Comply with safety regulations - Install required safety devices and systems

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Business License Requirements

• Myrtle Beach Business License - Required for all short-term rental operators
• Annual renewal required before April 30
• Fee calculated as percentage of gross revenue

Tax Registration Requirements

• State Tax Registration - South Carolina Department of Revenue
• Local Accommodations Tax Account - City of Myrtle Beach (3% rate)
• Horry County Hospitality Fee Account - County registration required

Documentation Needed

• Driver's license
• Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Proof of property ownership and/or residence
• Property insurance documentation
• Site plan and floor plan of the property

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Zoning Restrictions

Permitted Zones:

• RMV: Residential Multifamily Visitor
• MU-H: Mixed-Use High Density
• C6: Urban Village
• A: Amusement
• E: Entertainment
• HC1 & HC2: Highway Commercial
• IR: Interim Redevelopment (special exception)

Prohibited Zones:

• All residential zoning districts beginning with "R" (except RMV)

Operational Requirements

• Maximum occupancy limits apply
• Required safety devices (smoke detectors, fire safety equipment)
• Parking space requirements
• Guest registration and record-keeping obligations
• Emergency contact information must be available 24/7

Recent Legislative Changes

In 2025, Myrtle Beach passed an ordinance banning the conversion of short-term rentals to long-term rentals in certain commercial areas along 114 city blocks east of Kings Highway to the ocean. This measure is designed to maintain the tourism accommodation supply and preserve tax revenue.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental operators in Myrtle Beach must collect and remit multiple taxes:

State Taxes

• State Sales Tax: 5.0%
• State Accommodations Tax: 2.0%
• Local Option Sales Tax: 1.0%
• County Transportation Tax: 1.0%
• School District/Education Tax: 1.0%

Local Taxes

• City of Myrtle Beach Local Accommodations Tax: 3.0%
• Horry County Hospitality Fee: Varies

Total combined tax rates can exceed 12-14% of rental revenue.

Tax Collection Assistance

• Airbnb collects state lodging taxes, Myrtle Beach local accommodations tax, and Horry County fees
• Vrbo collects state lodging taxes and Myrtle Beach local accommodations tax
• If not collected by platforms, operators are responsible for all tax collection and remittance

Penalties and Enforcement

Violations of zoning codes and business license ordinances are misdemeanors with potential penalties including:

• Fines up to $500 per violation
• Up to 30 days imprisonment upon conviction
• Loss of business license or rental privileges

Contact Information for Local Authorities

City of Myrtle Beach - Zoning Division

• Phone: (843) 918-1179
• Email: info@cityofmyrtlebeach.com
• Address: P.O. Box 2468, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578

Business License Division

• Website: Business License Division
• Phone: Contact main city number for transfer

Planning & Zoning Department

• Website: Planning & Zoning Department

Source Links

• City of Myrtle Beach STR Information
• Myrtle Beach Zoning Code
• Zoning and City Limits Map
• Avalara MyLodgeTax - Myrtle Beach STR Laws

Important Notes for STR Investors

1. Zoning is Critical - Before purchasing any property for short-term rental use, verify the zoning allows visitor accommodations. Properties in residential zones cannot be converted to short-term rental use.

2. Grandfathered Properties - Only about 30 houses city-wide in traditional residential zones are grandfathered for short-term rentals, having been consistently used for that purpose prior to current zoning regulations.

3. New Conversion Restrictions - The 2025 ordinance preventing conversion from short-term to long-term rentals in key areas demonstrates the city's commitment to maintaining its tourism accommodation base.

4. Tax Complexity - With multiple overlapping tax obligations at state, county, and city levels, consider working with a tax professional familiar with South Carolina short-term rental regulations.

5. Regular Compliance Monitoring - Regulations can change, and enforcement may vary. Maintain current business licenses and stay informed about local ordinance updates.

This guide provides current information as of 2025, but regulations can change. Always consult with local authorities and legal professionals before making investment decisions or operational changes to ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.