Can I Airbnb in Hilton Head Island, SC? (2026)
Short-term rentals (stays under 30 days) are legal throughout Hilton Head Island in condos, villas, and single-family homes, but every rental property needs an annual Town Short-Term Rental Permit — now $150 per bedroom per year (permit year May 1–April 30) — plus a separate Town business license. There is no owner-occupancy rule, night cap, or zoning ban, but under rules effective May 1, 2026 owners must apply in a person's (not an LLC's) name, list the permit number in all ads, provide an HOA approval letter where applicable, and meet new fire/propane-safety and six-vehicle parking limits; violations carry escalating $250/$500/$1,000 civil fines with permit revocation after three citations in 12 months. Always confirm current requirements with the city before operating.
What’s required: a Short-Term Rental (STR) Permit ($150) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew annual.
Check a specific address
Rules can vary by zone and parcel. Resolve any South Carolina street address to its jurisdiction and see the verified rules that apply.
Related
Verified July 12, 2026. Informational only — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Also check HOA/condo rules and your lease, which can prohibit short-term rentals even where the city allows them.