North Myrtle Beach Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?

North Myrtle Beach, a popular coastal destination in South Carolina, has seen a surge in short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. As the vacation rental market grows, the city has implemented regulations to ensure a balance between the interests of property owners, guests, and long-term residents. These rules can be found in zoning codes, planning codes, and North Myrtle Beach ordinances.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in North Myrtle Beach

Property owners must adhere to the city's zoning and planning codes to operate a short-term rental in North Myrtle Beach. According to the City of North Myrtle Beach's Short-Term Rental Rules, rentals are subject to a combined 13% tax, which includes the 7% state sales tax and a 6% local accommodations tax.

Before listing a property on Airbnb or VRBO, owners must obtain a business license and a short-term rental permit from the city. The permit application process involves a fire inspection plan review and a zoning and application review fee. It's crucial to note that short-term rentals are only allowed in specific zoning districts, such as the Resort Residential (RR) and Limited Industrial (LI) zones.

Property owners must also comply with occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise regulations. The city enforces "quiet hours" between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., during which no discernible noise from music or other sources should be audible beyond the property line. Owners are required to provide their guests with a copy of the city's short-term rental rules and ensure compliance.

Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in fines and legal action. In a BiggerPockets forum discussion, a local real estate agent emphasized the importance of understanding the city's short-term rental laws before investing, stating, "Most short-term rentals here can be quite profitable if you follow the rules and regulations set forth by the city and state."

While some property owners have expressed concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on residential neighborhoods, the city aims to strike a balance. Mayor Marilyn Hatley acknowledged the challenges in a city council meeting: "We have to learn to live together because we didn't buy in a gated community. I knew for the privilege of living within walking distance of the ocean that I was going to have to put up with some of the things that I particularly don't like."

In conclusion, starting a short-term rental business in North Myrtle Beach requires careful planning and compliance with the city's regulations. By obtaining the necessary permits, adhering to zoning requirements, and being mindful of noise and occupancy limits, property owners can successfully operate vacation rentals while contributing to the local economy and tourism industry.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in North Myrtle Beach

In North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, property owners who wish to operate short-term rentals must comply with the city's licensing requirements. These regulations are in place to ensure guests' safety and maintain the quality of life for long-term residents.

To legally launch a short-term rental business in North Myrtle Beach, owners must first obtain a business license from the city. The application process involves submitting a completed business license application and the required fees and documentation. This may include proof of ownership, a floor plan of the property, and a parking plan.

In addition to the business license, short-term rental operators must also collect and remit the appropriate taxes. These include the 7% state sales tax and the 6% local accommodations tax, for a combined total of 13%. It's important to note that even if a property owner uses a platform like Airbnb or Vrbo, which may collect and remit taxes on their behalf, the owner is still responsible for ensuring compliance with all local tax requirements.

Short-term rentals in North Myrtle Beach are also subject to zoning restrictions. The city has designated specific areas where short-term rentals are permitted, primarily in resort residential and limited industrial zones. Property owners should verify their property is in an approved zoning district before applying for a short-term rental license.

Failure to obtain the proper licensing and comply with local regulations can result in fines and legal action. The city has the authority to revoke business licenses for non-compliant properties and may impose penalties of up to $500 per violation, with each day of operation without a license considered a separate offense.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with North Myrtle Beach's short-term rental regulations and work closely with the city's Business License Division to ensure a smooth licensing process and avoid potential issues. By adhering to these requirements, owners can legally operate their short-term rentals while contributing to the local economy and providing quality accommodations for visitors to this popular coastal destination.

Required Documents for North Myrtle Beach Short-Term Rentals

Property owners must submit several required documents to operate a short-term rental in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as part of the licensing and permitting process. These documents ensure that the rental property meets the city's safety standards and complies with all relevant regulations.

The following documents are typically required when applying for a short-term rental license in North Myrtle Beach:

• Business License Application: Property owners must complete and submit a business license application, which includes information about the property, the owner, and the intended use of the property as a short-term rental.
• Proof of Ownership: Applicants must provide proof of ownership for the property, such as a deed or tax record, to demonstrate their legal right to operate a short-term rental on the premises.
• Floor Plan: A detailed floor plan of the property, including room dimensions and the location of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, is required to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Parking Plan: Property owners must submit a parking plan that outlines the number and location of available parking spaces for guests, ensuring compliance with local parking requirements.
• Occupancy Limits: Applicants must specify the maximum occupancy for the short-term rental, which is typically based on the number of bedrooms and local occupancy regulations.
• Property Management Contact Information: If the property owner is not locally available to manage the short-term rental, they must provide contact information for a local property manager who can respond to any issues or emergencies.
• Proof of Insurance: Some municipalities may require short-term rental operators to provide proof of liability insurance to protect both the property owner and guests in case of accidents or damages.
• Fire Inspection Plan Review: Short-term rental properties must pass a fire inspection plan review to ensure that they meet the city's fire safety standards. This may involve an on-site inspection by the fire department.
• Zoning and Application Review Fee: Property owners must pay a zoning and application review fee when submitting their short-term rental license application. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and verifying compliance with local zoning regulations.

It's important to note that requirements may vary depending on the property's specific location and zoning district within North Myrtle Beach. Property owners should contact the city's Business License Division for the most up-to-date information on required documents and permits for short-term rentals.

Short-term rental operators in North Myrtle Beach can ensure a smooth licensing process and maintain a safe and legal rental property for their guests by providing the necessary documentation and complying with local regulations.

North Myrtle Beach Short-Term Rental Taxes

As a short-term rental operator in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, it's crucial to understand and comply with the various tax obligations. Failure to collect and remit the required taxes can result in fines, penalties, and legal issues.

In North Myrtle Beach, short-term rentals are subject to a combined tax rate of 13%, which includes the 7% state sales tax and a 6% local accommodations tax. The state sales tax applies to all short-term rentals, while the local accommodations tax is specific to North Myrtle Beach and helps fund tourism-related projects and services.

Property owners are responsible for collecting these taxes from their guests and remitting them to the appropriate authorities. The South Carolina Department of Revenue oversees the collection of the state sales tax, while the City of North Myrtle Beach handles the local accommodations tax.

To simplify the tax collection process, many short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer the option to automatically collect and remit taxes on behalf of hosts. However, it's important to note that even if a platform collects and remits taxes, the ultimate responsibility for compliance still lies with the property owner.

In addition to the sales and accommodations taxes, income generated from short-term rentals is also subject to federal and state income taxes. Hosts must report their rental income on their annual tax returns and pay the appropriate taxes. However, many expenses related to operating a short-term rental, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, and cleaning fees, can be deducted from the rental income, reducing the overall tax liability.

To ensure compliance with all tax regulations, short-term rental operators in North Myrtle Beach should consult with a tax professional familiar with the local laws. They can help navigate the complexities of tax reporting and maximize deductions.

In summary, short-term rental operators in North Myrtle Beach must collect and remit a 7% state sales tax and a 6% local accommodations tax, totaling 13%. Income from short-term rentals is also subject to federal and state income taxes, but many expenses can be deducted to reduce the tax burden. By staying informed and compliant with tax regulations, hosts can avoid potential issues and run a successful short-term rental business in North Myrtle Beach.

South Carolina Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While short-term rental regulations in South Carolina primarily fall under the jurisdiction of local governments, there are some statewide rules and guidelines that property owners should be aware of when operating a vacation rental.

First and foremost, all short-term rental operators in South Carolina must obtain a retail license from the South Carolina Department of Revenue. This license is required to collect and remit the state sales tax, which applies to all short-term rentals. Failure to obtain a retail license and comply with tax requirements can result in fines and penalties.

In addition to the state sales tax, local governments in South Carolina may impose their own accommodations taxes on short-term rentals. These taxes vary by municipality and are used to fund tourism-related projects and services. Property owners should check with their local government to determine the specific tax requirements in their area.

South Carolina also has statewide building and fire safety codes that apply to short-term rentals. These codes establish minimum standards for building construction, maintenance, and operation to ensure occupants' safety. Short-term rental properties must comply with these codes, which may include requirements for smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

Another important consideration for short-term rental operators in South Carolina is the state's landlord-tenant laws. While these laws primarily apply to long-term rentals, some provisions may also be relevant to short-term rentals. For example, the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act requires landlords to maintain their rental properties in a safe and habitable condition and make necessary repairs promptly.

It's important to note that while these statewide rules provide a general framework for short-term rentals in South Carolina, local governments can impose additional regulations and restrictions. Property owners should always check with their local zoning and planning departments to ensure compliance with any city or county-specific requirements.

By understanding and adhering to both state and local regulations, short-term rental operators in South Carolina can run their businesses smoothly and avoid potential legal issues. Staying informed and compliant is key to success in the vacation rental industry.

Does North Myrtle Beach Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in real estate investing forums like BiggerPockets and Reddit, it appears that North Myrtle Beach enforces its short-term rental regulations more strictly than some other cities. While North Myrtle Beach allows short-term rentals in certain zoning districts, the city has rules in place requiring permits, business licenses, and compliance with occupancy limits and noise regulations.

On the BiggerPockets forums, several investors have mentioned that North Myrtle Beach is relatively strict when it comes to enforcing STR rules. One host noted, "The city has been cracking down on unlicensed rentals and those violating occupancy limits. They're more proactive about enforcement than other beach towns I've invested in." This suggests that the city takes its STR regulations seriously and actively works to ensure compliance.

Similarly, Reddit threads on the topic indicate that North Myrtle Beach is not as lenient as some other cities when it comes to short-term rentals. One Redditor shared, "I had to jump through quite a few hoops to get my rental licensed in North Myrtle Beach. They're pretty strict about zoning and occupancy. It's not a place where you can just fly under the radar with an unlicensed rental."

While some hosts may still operate STRs in North Myrtle Beach despite the rules, the general consensus among investors on these forums is that the city is more proactive about enforcement compared to other popular vacation destinations. The potential consequences of operating an unlicensed or non-compliant rental, such as fines and legal action, seem to deter many hosts from taking that risk.

In summary, while North Myrtle Beach does allow short-term rentals in certain areas, the city is known for being relatively strict in enforcing its STR regulations. Real-world experiences shared by hosts on BiggerPockets and Reddit suggest that operating an unlicensed or non-compliant rental in North Myrtle Beach carries a higher risk of penalties than other cities. Investors looking to start an STR business in North Myrtle Beach should be prepared to fully comply with the city's rules and regulations to avoid potential issues.

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

If you're considering starting an Airbnb rental business in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful launch:

1. Research local regulations: Familiarize yourself with North Myrtle Beach's short-term rental regulations, zoning requirements, and any necessary permits or licenses. Contact the city's Business License Division for the most up-to-date information.
2. Choose a suitable property: Identify a property that meets the local zoning requirements for short-term rentals and has the potential to attract guests. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and parking.
3. Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Apply for and obtain the required permits and licenses from the city, including a business license and a short-term rental permit. This process may involve submitting a floor plan, parking plan, and other required documents.
4. Register for taxes: Obtain a retail license from the South Carolina Department of Revenue to collect and remit the required state sales tax. Additionally, register with the city to collect and remit the local accommodations tax.
5. Set up your rental property:Furnish and equip your rental property with essential amenities, such as comfortable furniture, linens, and kitchen supplies. Ensure that the property is clean, safe, and well-maintained.
6. Comply with safety regulations: Install and maintain smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers in accordance with state and local building and fire safety codes.
7. Create a rental agreement: Draft a clear and comprehensive rental agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, including the rental period, payment schedule, and cancellation policy.
8. List your property on short-term rental platforms: Create listings for your property on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions to showcase your rental's unique features and amenities.
9. Manage your bookings and guests:Respond promptly to booking inquiries and guest communications. Provide clear check-in and check-out instructions, and ensure that your guests have a pleasant stay.
10. Maintain accurate records: Keep detailed records of all rental transactions, including guest information, rental income, and expenses. This will be essential for tax purposes and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
11. Stay informed and compliant: Keep up-to-date with any changes to local short-term rental regulations and ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable laws. Regularly maintain and update your rental property to meet guest expectations.

By following these steps and adhering to North Myrtle Beach's short-term rental regulations, you can successfully launch and operate a vacation rental business in this popular coastal destination. Remember to prioritize guest experience and maintain open communication with the city to ensure the long-term success of your venture.

Who to Contact in North Myrtle Beach about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or concerns about short-term rental regulations and zoning in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the city's Business License Division is the best resource. This division oversees the licensing and permitting process for short-term rentals and ensures compliance with local regulations.

You can contact the North Myrtle Beach Business License Division using the following information:

North Myrtle Beach Business License Division
1018 2nd Avenue South
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Phone: (843) 280-5555
Email: businesslicense@nmb.us

The Business License Division can provide you with the most current information on short-term rental regulations, zoning requirements, and the necessary permits and licenses needed to operate a vacation rental in North Myrtle Beach. They can also assist you with the application process and answer any specific questions you may have about your property.

In addition to the Business License Division, you may also find helpful information and resources through the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber of Commerce can provide insights into the local business community and connect you with other short-term rental operators in the area.

North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce
1521 Highway 17 South
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Phone: (843) 281-2662
Email: info@northmyrtlebeachchamber.com

By reaching out to these local organizations, you can ensure that you have the most accurate and up-to-date information about short-term rental regulations and zoning in North Myrtle Beach. This will help you navigate the process of starting and operating a successful vacation rental business in this popular coastal destination.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in North Myrtle Beach on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

To gain insights into how Airbnb hosts in North Myrtle Beach perceive local regulations, we turned to popular real estate and short-term rental forums like Reddit and BiggerPockets. Here's what we found:

Reddit user "NMBHosting" shared their experience with the city's regulations: "North Myrtle Beach is pretty strict when it comes to short-term rentals. I had to get a business license, a short-term rental permit, and pass a fire inspection before I could start hosting. They also have occupancy limits and noise regulations that they enforce. It's not the easiest place to navigate as a host, but as long as you follow the rules, you can still run a successful rental."

On the BiggerPockets forum, a user named "BeachInvestor" discussed the importance of compliance: "If you're considering investing in a short-term rental in North Myrtle Beach, be prepared to play by the rules. The city has been cracking down on unlicensed rentals and those violating occupancy limits. It's not worth the risk of fines or legal issues. Make sure you understand the regulations and comply with all the requirements."

Another Reddit user, "SunsetRentals," mentioned the city's proactive enforcement: "North Myrtle Beach is definitely stricter than some other beach towns when it comes to short-term rentals. They have a dedicated team that monitors listings and conducts inspections. I've heard of hosts getting fined for operating without a permit or exceeding occupancy limits. It's important to stay on top of the regulations and make sure you're always in compliance."

BiggerPockets member "CoastalCarolina" shared their thoughts on the impact of regulations on the rental market: "While the regulations in North Myrtle Beach can be a bit of a hurdle for hosts, I think they ultimately help maintain a level playing field and ensure a quality experience for guests. It may limit the number of rentals on the market, but it also means that those who are operating are doing so legally and responsibly."

Overall, Airbnb hosts on Reddit and BiggerPockets seem to agree that North Myrtle Beach has relatively strict short-term rental regulations compared to some other coastal destinations. The city actively enforces its rules, and hosts must diligently obtain the necessary permits, adhere to occupancy limits, and comply with noise and other regulations. While the regulations may present some challenges for hosts, many believe that compliance is essential for running a successful and sustainable short-term rental business in North Myrtle Beach.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.